When Nayeli Drex first stepped into her college dorm, she was excited about independence—but worried about what she would eat.
Like many students, she faced a busy schedule, tight budget, and the temptation of cheap fast food. But instead of giving in, Nayeli decided to create a simple clean eating meal plan that would keep her energized through long lectures and late-night study sessions.
Her approach wasn’t about fancy recipes or expensive ingredients. Instead, she focused on whole, minimally processed foods she could find at the campus grocery store or local market.
Breakfast often started with overnight oats mixed with almond milk, chia seeds, and fresh fruit. “It takes me five minutes to prepare at night,” Nayeli said, “and I wake up to something delicious and filling.”
Lunch was usually a grain bowl—brown rice or quinoa topped with roasted vegetables and grilled chicken or chickpeas. She would batch-cook these on Sundays, storing portions in reusable containers so she could grab one between classes. Dinner might be a quick stir-fry with tofu, colorful veggies, and a splash of low-sodium soy sauce.
The secret, Nayeli believes, is balance. She still enjoys a slice of pizza with friends, but most of her meals follow her clean eating rules: fresh produce, lean protein, healthy fats, and minimal added sugar. This approach not only improved her focus but also helped her maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.
By the end of her first semester, Nayeli noticed she felt lighter, more energetic, and even saved money. Her friends started asking for her recipes, and she realized that eating clean in college wasn’t just possible—it could be simple and enjoyable.
