Freshman 15? We’ve all heard of this term. As first years, we know it may be difficult to adjust to the university life and stress combined with a new lifestyle can lead to the dreaded freshman 15. Here are 10 simple tips for everyone (not just first years) to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid weight gains!
1. Always eat breakfast.
We all want to sleep in and wake up last minute to run to class but studies showed that those who skip breakfast are more likely to gain weight. Set your alarm 10 minutes earlier to eat a simple breakfast and it’ll really boost your energy for the day!
2. Stock your dorm with healthy snacks.
We all have the habit of snacking on sweets or unhealthy snacks when we study. Why not replace those unhealthy snacks with healthy options like mixed nuts and fruits, granola bars and vegetables?
3. Find a gym buddy.
Unless you are a fitness addict, sometimes it may be hard to motivate ourselves to hit the gym. However, finding a gym buddy will remind you of your fitness goals and it can be a great motivation for both of you.
4. Join sports teams.
York offers intramural, club and recreational sports teams for everyone to join. Don’t feel discouraged just because you never played a specific sport before! Join a sports team, stay active and meet new friends! Visit www.yorkulions.ca for more info!
5. Water, water, water.
Water is crucial for your body to run properly and process calories. Stay hydrated or your metabolism will slow down which leads to weight gains. Always make sure to carry a reusable water bottle so you can constantly stay hydrated during class.
6. Manage your stress.
Transitioning to university can be difficult and stressful but if you don’t properly manage your stress, your brain will continuously make you think that you’re hungry. A simple way to manage stress is to create a daily schedule or make a to-do list so you can keep in mind upcoming deadlines.
7. Understand your food.
Try to read the labels and understand what you are eating and putting into your body! Doing this will help you make more informed decisions.
8. Live actively.
Simple things like taking the stairs instead of elevators, do some simple sit-ups when you take short study breaks can make a difference gradually!
9. Get your rest!
All of you probably know the term “all-nighter” by now. However, when you’re tired, you are more likely to reach for sugary and fatty foods. Moreover, sleep deprivation disrupts your metabolism which is the last thing you want to do to your body. It is important to get at least 6 hours of sleep per day!
10. Don’t eat less to drink more.
As a freshman, we have the likelihood to consume more alcohol and soda. But both really brings no benefits to your body. Try switching over to coffee, tea or water!
Image Sources:
http://www.livescience.com/36356-healthy-breakfast-tips-ideas.html
http://www.healthylivingheavylifting.com/how-snacking-is-sabotaging-your-weight-loss/
http://gymflow100.com/choosing-the-right-gym-buddy-for-women/
http://yfile.news.yorku.ca/2010/08/23/lions-football-team-starts-training-camp/
http://www.hoax-slayer.com/dew-water-poison-hoax.shtml
http://drchloe.com/services/stress-management
http://www.mtsac.edu/business/csdt/nutrition/
http://worldrecordwalk.ca/5-ways-to-live-a-more-active-life-today/
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/peter-salovey/reflect-and-rest_b_5901460.html
http://spacecoastdaily.com/2015/06/cdc-alcohol-and-pregnancy-questions-and-answers/
http://www.acefitness.org/fitness-fact-article/2671/don-t-skip-breakfast…