Eight tips to prevent the Freshmen Fifteen

Everything is good in moderation

Although you are in a new place with different people and food, try to eat the same way you would at home. If you didn’t eat pizza or burgers everyday at home why are you doing it now? It’s totally fine to have junk food, just in moderation. Although the dinning hall isn’t always the best, be creative and put together balanced meals with grains, meat, fruits, and vegetables. You would be surprised what you can come up with.

Photo courtesy of Sarah Berkowitz

Go to the gym

Believe it or not, part of what you pay each semester is for facilities, like the gym. If you’re paying for it, might as well get your money’s worth. Not only is working out good for maintaining a healthy body, but it also clears your head and reduces stress. Try to mark off an hour a few times a week designated for your workout. Even if you don’t have too much time it is better to go for 15 minutes than not at all. If you don’t trust yourself to make it there, find a gym buddy who will hold you accountable. 

Avoid drunk food 

There is nothing better than stopping by Marshall Street after a night out and eating your heart out at Acropolis, Calio’s, Insomnia, or any other late night restaurant. Although it may taste good, your late night splurge will add up over time. Not only is it detrimental for your body, but it also makes a dent in your wallet. A healthy and  cheap alternative is having cereal or popcorn back at your dorm. This satisfies your sweet or salty craving while not being too unhealthy.

Grab a piece of fruit when you leave the dining hall 

Not only is it convenient because you’re in the dining hall all the time, but it is also a healthy snack. If you have a healthy snack around, you are more likely to eat it. This will prevent you from snacking on chips or other less healthy snacks.

Healthy and quick snack

 Take the stairs

I know after a long day all you want to do is take the elevator up to your dorm and plop into bed, but try to take the stairs as much as possible. By the end of the year you will have calves and quads of steel. The extra flight of stairs won’t hurt you (yes, even if you live on The Mount).

many students claim that climbing the Mount steps have given them bigger, more toned butts #goals

 Keep a schedule

Make sure you schedule in time to eat all three meals throughout the day. Not only will it keep you energized, but it will also prevent you from overeating at your next meal. Note- never skip a meal– always make time, no matter how hectic your course schedule is

Keep snacks in your bag

As college students we all have our days packed with classes and activities that don’t always allow time for a full meal. For days like these packs snacks like granola bars and fruit in your bag so you have something to eat when you’re hungry. Not only is it quick, but it keeps your metabolism going and helps you burn off the food.

A healthier snack option that’s super easy to make

Get your sleep

As college students we all know the stress of cramming for an exam or two the next day and pulling all nighters. Although you might be trying to get a good grade, don’t sacrifice your health in the process. Lack of sleep can also lead to weight gain so it is important that you make time to catch up on your sleep.

because you didn’t decorate your bed and room for nothing, amiright?

Most of all do what feels best for your body. Don’t over work your body, deny yourself food, or beat yourself up if you splurge. Just try to make healthy choices and you are set for success.