During your college years, it is inevitable that you will experience a change in your body weight. For those who haven’t heard the myth of “the freshman 15” it is the idea that during your first year of college you will gain about 15 pounds. Many believe the big move from home to college is the source of this foreseen weight gain.
College students have full control over their diet, physical activities, and sleeping patterns which many do not manage in a healthy way.
By taking the right precautions and following these helpful tips, students can easily avoid the extra pounds.
Choose healthier meal options
At Old Main Market there are plenty of healthy foods to choose from such as leafy green salads, that aren’t drenched in dressing, and fresh fruits and vegetables. This can provide you with healthy nutrient-dense calories instead of empty calories obtained through greasy, fried foods such as pizza and french fries. If you have a sweet tooth but want a healthier dessert option, substitute those tempting cookies with a fresh piece of fruit or a yogurt parfait.
Avoid elevators
Taking the stairs instead of the elevator when walking to class is a great way to burn extra calories throughout the day and get nice sculpted calves and a cute butt!
SLEEP!
I cannot say it enough. Getting a full night’s rest allows you to be more energized during the day. Also don’t be afraid to slip in a mid-day nap to recharge and reenergize.
Don’t let school consume you
Take time out of your busy day to do something outside of school. Hang out with friends or go to the movies. Even when you are doing homework and studying it’s important to take breaks in between so you don’t overwork yourself. So get up and get moving!
Avoid snacking late at night
Late night studying is not always avoidable but if you do get hungry, try eating fruit or a granola bar instead of a bag of chips.
Avoid eating out daily
Cooking at home and limiting the amount of times you eat out in the week is a great way to help control what goes into your body. This will allow you to get creative with your meals and can help in shedding a few extra pounds. This is also a great way to save a few extra dollars, and as college students, we could all use that.
Skipping daily exercising
Set up a workout schedule each week to avoid getting lazy. Don’t let your school life take over all of your time. Yes, you are a student first, but that isn’t all you are. Take time out for yourself and enjoy life!
These suggestions are not always possible, but the small effort you make will help you maintain a healthy weight. If you happen to be one of the lucky few that have not been affected by the freshman 15 or have even lost weight since the start of school, it is still important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The changes you make in your life now will only help you be successful in the future.