A Fresh Start

January is no time to be out to lunch when it comes to healthy eating options on campus. Remember those New Year’s resolutions?

To put you on the right fork in the road, here are three convenient ways to help yourself to a better relationship with food in 2011. And you don’t even have to leave campus.

> If you crave a supportive group environment, there’s still time to sign up for Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less sessions that begin the week of Jan. 10 at six NC State locations.

> If you’re looking for individualized help from a registered dietitian, Campus Recreation (and the State Health Plan) have you covered.

> Just bored with the same old salad-and-sandwich routine? Check out the new options in the renovated Atrium food court, which opens Monday, Jan. 10, for breakfast.

Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less

This 15-week program, part of a statewide effort, harnesses the power of mind over waistline. Over a weekly brown bag lunch, you’ll learn strategies for changing behavior that can work for your whole family. And you’ll share struggles and celebrate successes with a supportive group of co-workers.

The program costs $30, almost all of which is refunded to successful participants. The remainder of the fee pays for a personal journal and magazine you can keep.

To sign up for classes at one of six campus locations, use the handy online registration for Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less.

Consultations with a Registered Dietitian

If you’re looking for personalized advice about nutrition, weight management, digestive problems or eating disorders, you can consult a registered dietitian through Campus Recreation. The program works with the State Health Plan, which began covering four visits with a licensed dietitian in 2010.

The service is available for members of Carmichael Complex and requires co-pays for each visit. The one-hour initial consultation will cost you $35; follow-up visits are $25. Or, you can save $15 by signing up for a fast-start package that covers for your first two visits for $45.

Atrium Food Court

The renovated Atrium food court, which opens Monday, provides a buffet of new dining venues with a focus on fresh but fast food.

Sushi rolls, made each morning, are on the menu at Zen Blossom, and you’ll notice a number of vegetarian options. If salads and wraps are more your speed, check the menu at Delirious.

In a hurry? Grab a salad, sandwich, wrap, pita or parfait from the Wolfpack-To-Go cooler.

Best of all, food court nutrition information is available online.  You’ll find calorie counts and food allergen data for Brickyard Pizza, along with options for 500-calorie meals at Chick-Fil-A. Check it out.