Categories
dieting exercise free trials weight loss

Say “No” To Freshman 15

A common phrase among college students is the dreaded freshman 15. A time in their lives when they are living out on their own and have to learn how to eat properly. They no longer have parents to hold their hand and help them to eat the right things. They may not have ever shopped or cooked a proper meal before. The school cafeteria is full of delicious and unhealthy food just begging to be eaten. With so many tempting things, it is no wonder that young adults fall victim to the freshman 15.

With every problem there is a solution. The first part of the solution is to get enough sleep. Most college students stay up late studying, or hanging out with friends only to get up early in the morning to go to class. By not getting enough sleep, their bodies will produce more fat. Make a conscious effort to go to bed at a decent time; try to be consistent with your sleep schedule. The more consistent, the more your body will get used to it and the better you will sleep. Getting eight hours of sleep can go a long way towards making anyone a happy and healthy person.

The second part has to do with food. Eating fatty foods like Oreos, cookies, chips, and macaroni and cheese, which all have simple sugars is not healthy. They tend leave the consumer more tired and hungry than before the snack was eaten. Some dietitians suggest to get according to the rainbow. Be sure to eat greens, reds, yellows, then some browns, and whites. Another part of the solution is portion control. When anyone is placed in front of a buffet of food, their first impression is to eat all in sight, no matter how full you may get. This is not wise, as the body doesn’t need that much food. One more thing relating to food- don’t eat food late at night. At night, you are more likely to consume fatty foods in front of the television than during the day. It is better to eat during the day when you are aware of exactly how much food is on your plate.

Some studies show that if alcohol weren’t consumed the freshman 15 would lower to the freshman 5. Alcohol has a lot of hidden calories in it that most college students don’t count on. It adds unwanted weight to young freshman who just want to experience the joys of college life. Drinking alcohol in moderation can help reduce those calories, don’t overindulge.

With a new busy schedule and getting used to the college life, it’s hard to find the time to exercise. However, it is exceptionally important to fit in a thirty minute jog here and there. Find something that you like to do that keeps you moving. Whether it be dancing, yoga, or playing sports, any exercise is better than no exercise. A pass to the gym could also do wonders for those who actually utilize what it has to offer.

The freshman 15 is avoidable if you are aware of it and know what to do if you were to gain a few pounds. Sleep, proper amount of food, the right amount of food, less alcohol, and proper exercise can go a long way to preventing this unwanted college tradition. Just remember moderation in all things and it should be easier. Avoid that muffin top by eating an apple instead of your roommate’s chocolate chip cookies.

About the Author

Breanna Trost writes for an online resource for colleges students called MyCollegesandCareers.com. My Colleges and Careers assists prospective students as they search for online courses that can help them start a new career.