Eating Without Cheating: Go-to’s That Won’t Kill Your Health Vibe

Eating healthy in college can be quite the challenge, especially at JMU where the dining halls as well as the off-campus eats are full of endless opportunities for absolute indulgence and food comas. Freshman 15 can quickly turn into senior 15 because who actually has the resistance to say no to good and incredibly bad-for-you food, am I right? Sticking to diets can be hard because opting for the salad only works for so long. And peer pressure from friends is real. I’ll admit it, I’m the worst influence when it comes to getting friends to break their healthy eating streaks. So it is understandable why students may be hesitant to eat out and try the latest restaurant because they don’t want to tempted to cheat their diets and go ham on a slice of pizza or a cookie skillet. But have no fear, Harrisonburg has plenty of healthy eats to still satisfy your needs. Whenever you want to throw in the towel, check one of these places out and you will still be able to engage in absolute indulgence without feeling a guilty about it.

Little Grill Collective

Little Grill is a downtown favorite and a great breakfast option if you still want the savory pancakes and hangover-curing omelettes without the calories. It’s especially great for vegetarians as most of their menu consists of meatless options. Little Grill thrives off of its mission of serving food that is local and cooking “with a conscience.” A menu must are their blue monkey pancakes, loaded with bananas and blueberries. In addition to its healthy perks, students should stop by for its chill environment. Eating here is always great way to wake up.

Pulp

Located inside Shenandoah Bicycle Company, Pulp is the place to lose your acai bowl virginity. For those who have never tried an acai bowl, it is a bowl of fruit blended with acai pulp and topped with more fresh fruit and granola. It is essentially a smoothie, but much more filling so your stomach won’t be growling an hour later. Whether you play it safe with the O.G. or want to be creative and build your own, the acai bowl will not disappoint.

Pure Eats

Pure Eats is another downtown favorite dedicated to serving local food. While their burgers are a must have, the beef used can be found just a few counties away in Rockbridge. You won’t face a guilty aftermath knowing that every item on the menu is local and freshly prepared everyday.

A Bowl of Good Cafe

The name of this place pretty much speaks for the menu. Go here and you will literally get a bowl of good. The menu has endless options. Pretty much anything you could possibly want, you can get in your bowl. To people who think that healthy food is tasteless, this cafe proves otherwise. Each bowl is loaded with flavors from all over, giving you a range from Mexican to Indian and more. You may still get a food coma, but don’t worry, you’re just loading up for your health.