The ‘Freshman 15,’ the alleged weight gained by a college freshman, is something dreaded by many college students, however a new study reveals that the idea is a myth.
A study released in October by Social Science Quarterly revealed that the actual weight gain of first-year college students is between 2.5 and 3.5 pounds on average, a far cry from the 15 pounds students are warned about when they begin school. Compared to non-students of similar age, freshmen only gained an additional half-pound.
Despite the weight gain being below the mythical 15 pounds, the study did offer theories on why freshmen may gain weight. Higher calorie foods, unbalanced diets, increased stress, poor sleeping habits and less physical exercise are all cited as causes for weight gain during freshman year and throughout college.
This isn’t surprising to sophomore English major Courtney Guth who feels that the freedom of college allows for students to develop irregular habits that they would not have at home. “Not only do they have more freedom when it comes to choosing what to eat, but also when to eat,” Guth said.
Claire Posey, a sophomore cellular biology and genetics major, agrees, saying that late night snacking while studying is common among college students. The study cites the National College Health Assessment reporting that only 10 percent of college students get enough sleep to feel rested in the morning at least six days a week.
Lack of sleep often pairs with intake of high-calorie caffeinated drinks and less physical activity, according to the study. In addition, many campus buildings and libraries at universities offer coffee shops, which may increase caffeine consumption.
The University of Maryland offers almost 40 different food shops and dining services on campus ranging from coffee shops to the new 251 all-you-can-eat diner on North Campus, according to UMD Dining services. Previously, dining on campus was only sold a la carte.
“I think it offers a better variety and the items seem healthier,” Guth said, noting that 251 offers more fresh vegetables and fruits which the other campus diners lack. “It’s not the best food, but it’s definitely a step above the diner.”
“I hate going to 251 North,” Posey said. Her biggest complaint is that most food is covered in butter or grease and is extremely salty. “The school can offer much healthier options,” Posey said. “The healthier the options, the healthier the students will be.”
Sophomore vocal performance major Rachel Weinstock says that even if students don’t gain the ‘Freshman 15,’ universities should help newly independent students establish healthy lifestyles from the very beginning. Offering affordable healthy food, coordinating gym programs with meal plans and educating students can help make healthier decisions in the long run.