Tips to Avoid the "Freshman 15"

If you're not aware of the talk about the "Freshman 15" in college, let me educate you. This is a phrase that college students have given to explain their weight journey in the first year at their university. It is said that people gain 15 pounds in their freshman year at college. However, there are some tips to avoiding this so called "Freshman 15."

Be Prepared. College is a place filled with unhealthy options that sometimes include hundreds of calories in just one serving. You can come prepared by stocking your room with healthy snacks, drinks, and meals. By doing this, monitor the amount of fats, sugars, and sodiums in these snacks. Bring these snacks with you in your book bag when you know you will be eating lunch on campus to incorporate a healthy side.

Watch out for liquid calories. Most college universities offer a drink with the incorporated meal plan in tuition. These drinks are mostly fountain drinks which means pop and thousands of sugars. Make sure to bring a water bottle around with you that you can have your own healthy drink in, or buy a drink on campus that offers less sugars. Also, alcoholic beverages such as beer, have a very high calorie intake which can add up quickly if you do not monitor how much or what you are drinking.

Exercise. Involving a gym routine or a simple exercise routine in your dorm or apartment will help you stay on top of what you are digesting. This will also help you maintain a good diet and healthy lifestyle.

Manage stress. Sometimes when students get overwhelmed in a negative way, overeating can occur. Find time in your day to take a break for yoga or meditation to calm your stresses. This will also help you balance your day with what ever you may be doing or if you are over overwhelmed.