Ah, the dreaded “Freshman 15,” a phrase and concept that we’ve all been dreading since we first submitted our college applications. Here are some tips on how to avoid this awful phenomenon.
1. Drink more water.
Your body needs water to keep running properly, and it also helps to make you feel fuller and less tired. It also boosts your metabolism!
2.) Get more sleep.
As silly as that might sound, sleep deprivation can disrupt your metabolism.
3.) Try not to stress.
Now this one sounds even sillier, but it’s proven that chronic high stress can prevent you from losing weight and even add pounds.
4.) Make healthier choices.
For one swipe you can get the three-finger-combo from Canes (970 calories) or a salad or wrap from Croutons.
5.) Just because Shafer is all you can eat doesn’t mean you should eat it all.
Remember to take healthy portions so you don’t overeat. And just because there’s a soft-serve machine doesn’t mean you need to get ice cream every time.
6.) Exercise.
This is pretty self-explanatory. Grab a friend and go! Plus, our gym is nationally ranked and a great place to release stress. Take advantage of this while you can.
7.) Try taking the stairs or a longer route to class.
If you’re a freshman you probably live in a residence hall with many many floors. Taking the stairs every day will definitely make a difference.
8.) Buy healthy snacks.
You’ll be less likely to go out and get unhealthy food if you have fruits and granola bars right in your room. These will come in handy when you’ve got late night cravings.
9.) And on that note, avoid late night pizza and cookies.
It’s tempting to go to Insomnia Cookies or Red-Eye but just remember that it’s been proven that eating late at night leads to more weight gain.
10.) Grab an apple instead of chips.
With most meal swipes you can grab a side, opt for the fruit instead of something unhealthy.
11.) Eat breakfast.
Studies have shown that weight gain is more common among people who skip breakfast. You also gain energy from eating breakfast.
12.) Don’t multitask while you eat.
When you’re watching TV or studying you won’t really be paying attention to what or how much you’re eating. Chuck Bass can wait.
13.) Skip the soda and drink water instead.
Soda is dehydrating and just over-all bad for you.
14.) Eat a salad or piece of fruit every time you get dinner.
Salad is healthy for you and will fill you up.
15.) And remember, it’s normal to gain weight during college.
Don’t go long periods without eating because this will lead to even more weight gain.
Here’s to being healthy and happy, and remember to stay hydrated!