December means two things for collegiettes: crunched time and perpetual stress. Exams are upon us, papers are do, and the holidays are extremely (almost painfully) close. When it seems like we’re pulling back-to-back all nighters, running on coffee and 5-hour-energy drinks, and spending hours cooped up in the library, stress-eating and consequent weight gain almost seems inevitable.
It is even scientifically proven that women are more prone to over-eating in relation to chronic stress. Blame it on the tricky little devil of a hormone–cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that is induced by either fear or stress. It is linked with a slowed metabolism, increased body fat, and a decrease in lean muscle. As if that isn’t bad enough, it also leads to a tendency to consume fatty foods. Cortisol is Public Enemy No 1.
Here are a few of our tips to de-stress and consequently, keep the weight off, even when you’re scrambling to study for that Psych exam at 3 in the morning:
1. Get more sleep. While you may have a special affinity for Starbucks Doubleshots, getting that shut-eye is essential for your health. It is a well known fact that sleep deprivation is linked with weight gain and can lead students to perform poorly on academic exams so just do yourself a solid, and allow your body to rest.
2. Get active. If you don’t have time to spend an hour doing cardio at Burdick Hall, then go for a short walk around campus to clear your head. Exercise is a great stress-buster mind-clearer, and overall, mood-lifter, and for that reason, you should make time for it.
3. Give your body what it wants. If it wants crap, then choose the lesser of the evils and stress-eat responsibly. Burritos are bad, but not as bad as quesadillas. Opt for a mini bag of Sun Chips instead of the big bag of Doritos. Or how about a skinnier version of that Peppermint Mocha made with nonfat milk and no whip?
4. Wear skinny jeans. When you’re up all night, the first thing you want to reach for are those comfy sweat pants. But wearing tight clothes will make you more conscientious of your figure and remind you why you’re snacking on unsalted nuts and not rummaging through your candy drawer.
5. Drink lots of water. Sometimes, your brain can simply confuse hunger for dehydration. Make it a goal to drink at least 5 glasses a day. A cold glass of water in the morning can even wake you up better than that coffee can.
Remember, finals week is what YOU make of it. You’ve got this! Kick those exams in the ass, but don’t turn your back on eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and exercising.
Happy Studying!