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Nutrition & food security

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Food security & nutrition

The body requires nutrients to perform and function well. Some nutrients are for survival, like food and water. Others can be cultural or habitual, like tea and coffee.  

Whether we're meat-eaters, vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, it is essential to know what nutrients work for our bodies and support our well-being.

Only 36% of students
eat more than 2 servings of fruit & veggies per day.

40% of Canadian students struggle with food security.
If you're not getting enough healthy food, there is zero shame in accessing a food bank.

What is food security? Food security is always having enough food that's nutritious, safe, and fits your culture.

 

 Cultural reflections

Much of the way we understand food and nutrition is through familial and cultural upbringings. Staying connected to culturally diverse food can be difficult on a student budget and while living at a distance from your home communities. One way to celebrate food culture and appreciation is through local eateries, where you can enjoy familiar cultural favourites and try new flavours too. The resources at the bottom of the page will connect you with restaurant listings in the Abbotsford and Chilliwack areas.

 

Tips for healthy eating as a student

 

Include accessible and culturally relevant proteins in your diet

Protein-rich foods including plant-based or lean meats, fish, and poultry are essential components of everyone’s diet to ensure healthy muscle, bone, and skin. Plant-based proteins include peas, lentils, legumes, tofu, tempeh, nuts, and seeds can be easily resourced and affordable.

 

Eat the rainbow

Filling your plate with colourful vegetables and fruits can help your body gain healthy nutrients, plus they're delicious! Fresh, frozen, or canned are all good choices.

 

Batch cook with friends

Cooking and eating with friends contributes to your health and your wellbeing. Pool your money and make a big batch recipe you all enjoy, then divide up the leftovers to take home.

 

Stockpile portable snacks

Not only are vending machines and restaurants budget killers, but their food also tends to be less healthy. Plan ahead for your inevitable snack attacks and stash nutritious snacks in your bag to last the day: fruit, crackers or roti with hummus, a cup of soup, roast chickpeas, trail mix.

 

Choose your drinks carefully

Increase water and decrease the caffeine. When we are studying long hours and staying up late, we can rely on sugary or caffeinated drinks to help us stay awake. Drinking water can help hydrate our bodies and replenish energy.  

When to reach out for help

Having enough food to eat while at university can be challenging. If you're struggling with food security, please check out the resources below.

UFV resources

UFV-SUS Food bank

Free food hampers are available to any UFV students struggling with food insecurity.
Community food banks

A list of Fraser Valley food banks you can access within your community.
Student emergency fund

Emergency funds are available to assist students who are experiencing unforeseen financial difficulties. 

Community resources

Canada's Food Guide

Research-based guidance for healthy eating
Abbotsford local eats

Browse a list Abbotsford's restaurants to find your cultural comfort food.
Chilliwack local eats

Browse a list Chilliwack's eateries to find your faves.
More local food resources

Listings of local organizations offering free meals and other supports.

Please note that this website does not constitute, and should not be interpreted as, medical advice, diagnosis, or opinion. This website is for informational purposes only and is not guaranteed to be accurate, complete, reliable, or error-free. This website is not intended as a tool for self-diagnosis, is not a recommendation of a specific treatment plan or healthcare provider, and is not a substitute for proper medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek a consultation with a qualified medical or health professional.