Ask the RD: Well Food
How can I feel excited about eating while also maintaining a healthy diet?
CDS is excited to welcome all our Tar Heels back to campus! Be sure to visit our two residential food halls, Chase and Top of Lenoir (TOL), as well as our various retail spots throughout the semester.
Tips for Maintaining a Balanced, Exciting Diet:
1. Pair your entree with fruits and veggies
To keep your plate colorful and balanced, start with an entree you love, like pizza, pasta, or a burger. Then add a vegetable or fruit to your plate. Our Salad Bar stations offer a variety of fruits, including applesauce. Vegetables are available at many stations, and the Simply Prepared station at Chase and Top of Lenoir serves flavorful vegetable dishes throughout the week that complement the entrees. Don’t hesitate to add spices from our Spiceology shelves or sauces– they are a great way to make your meal more exciting!
2. Try something new each week
Set a goal to try a new food at least once a week. Not only will this keep things interesting, but it will also introduce you to new flavors and spices you can use in your own cooking. Chase and Top of Lenoir feature an International Station that offers dishes from various cultures, including Italian, Indian, and Asian cuisines. You can also try Soy Bites as a vegan protein option– they add a touch of sweetness and take on the flavors of the dish. Including diverse cuisines in your meals is a great way to expand your palate and keep your diet varied!
3. Don’t be afraid to treat yourself to dessert.
Chase is excited to debut a new Hand-Scooped Ice Cream station this year. After lunch or dinner, stop by for a scoop of vanilla, chocolate, mint chocolate chip, or one of our specialty flavors. Toppings are available right next to the station. If you’re not in the mood for ice cream, check out the bake shops at either dining location, where you’ll find cakes, cookies, pastries and more– including made-without-gluten and vegan options.
While desserts often get a bad rap, they provide essential nutrients like carbohydrates and fats, which are important for energy and brain power– perfect for starting the semester strong!