If you’re studying in London, it can be difficult to maintain a healthy, balanced diet (particularly when you’re on a budget). Pop-up fast-food stalls and snack bars often lure customers who have no objection to spending a lot of cash, but for students, it’s much more economical to resist these temptations. Here are some top tips to help you eat well as a student in London – it’s easier than you might think! Branch Out Whether you’re in London for one year, several years or just a short stay, student accommodation is the best place to meet new friends. New friends often mean new foods, and getting experimental in the kitchen together is a great way to break the ice. If you’re usually a picky eater, see your new student life as a chance to branch out and experiment with cooking. Meeting so many new people in short stay student accommodation means you are likely to be introduced to cuisine from around the world, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to expand your culinary knowledge. Suggesting a dinner party with fellow students is a great option if you’re looking to eat well, spend less and enjoy a wider range of foods. Shop Savvy Knowing when and where to shop for food is a basic but important tip when you’re on a budget. It’s best to ensure you shop per week rather than per day, as this can help you to plan your meals and won’t tempt you to overspend. It’s also helpful to shop in the evenings rather than during the day, as a lot of supermarkets reduce their prices to get rid of the food that will soon be going out of date. More often than not, this food can be frozen and kept for quite a while. If you’re a hungry carnivore looking to get your hands on some cheap meat, it’s best to shop at a butchers as they often provide better deals. Similarly, local markets often sell their fruits and vegetables at reasonable prices, so your five-a-day won’t be a completely unrealistic goal. Drink Well Drinking plenty of water is a given when trying to maintain a healthy diet, but students are often tempted with energy drinks and coffee, particularly during exam periods. One or two more indulgent drinks won’t cause much harm, but might burn a bigger hole in your pocket than tap water will. Plus, drinking water will make you feel fresher, less fatigued and healthier in the long-run. If you’re bored of the taste, try infusing the drink with cucumber slices or lemon. Staying healthy in London may take a little more time and effort, but is undoubtedly worthwhile and good practice for the future. Even if you’re only in London for a short stay, student accommodation provides countless opportunities to access fantastic foods, maintain a balanced diet and enjoy a range of meal options. Author Plate Sophie Smith works as an independent consultant, specialising in offering advice on London student accommodation. London offers an unbeatable experience for international students, and Sophie has many suggestions to make sure that their time in the city is positive, safe and enjoyable.
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