There are so many adjustments a freshman must encounter during their first year in college. Don’t let one of those adjustments be to your waistline. Follow these easy tips to stay fit and healthy:
1. Avoid Eating Late at Night
Staying up late to do homework or study can be an easy way to gain an appetite. Be careful about your “midnight snacks” and be sure to eat very light and healthy, otherwise the additional calories will sit in your stomach all night.
2. Stock Up on Healthy Snacks
Ditch the candy bars and chips and lean towards some healthier options, such as fruits or energizing snack bars. You’ll be surprised at the amount of calories you will eliminate, and your hunger will still be satisfied.
3. Find Time to Exercise
Finding time to exercise in college can be difficult, but exercise is one of the most important means to keep your head clear, focused and your body feeling great. Even if it’s only for 15-30mins, the effort will pay off and your body will thank you.
4. Limit Alcohol Consumption
Drinking may be fun, but hidden inside of your alcoholic drinks are tons of calories. If you aren’t careful, one night out could result in a new addition to your stomach. Remember, juices and sodas can be full of sugar too. In college, water becomes your best friend.
5. Gain Support from Peers
Create a circle of friends that are willing to partake in these healthy choices. Finding someone to work out with or eat meals can benefit you both and further motivate you to make the right decisions for your body.
6. Pre-plan Meals
The dinning halls can be overwhelming with options, so it’s easy to fill up your plate with large assortments of food. However, pre-planning your meal ahead of time can give you a ball-park idea of what you’d like to eat and further prevent over consumption.
7. Use Dorm as a Gym
Sometimes the gym can be packed or scheduling gets in the way, so why not use your own dorm? Yes, space is limited – but it’s easy to lift weights or do some crunches on your dorm floor. Take advantage of all your provided spaces.
8. Don’t Skip Meals
Eating three meals a day is very important in providing the balance your body needs as well as the energy for your long days of stress and hard work. Avoiding meals will only lead to overeating later on.
9. Minimize Stress
College is stressful, no doubt. However, all that stress can sometimes cause you to gain weight or turn towards food. Find your own unique way to deal with stress positively.
10. Pay Attention to Portion Size
After a long day of classes and hard work, it’s certainly desirable to pile up on the food, but always be cautious of your portion size. The saying “Your eyes are bigger than your stomach” is certainly true.