Four Keys to Keep from Gaining Weight in College
‘The Freshman Ten’ is something that every new college student should try to avoid at all costs. Leaving home and making your own decisions can be stressful, but there are ways to ensure that your eating habits don’t go south as you adjust to university life. Here are some helpful suggestions to keep in mind from your very first day on campus.
1. The dorm cafeteria is loaded with bad, as well as good, choices. While it may be easier for cooks and students alike to opt for casseroles, fried foods and baked goods to satisfy hunger, these things definitely lead to weight gain. Instead, go straight to the salad bar (and remember not to reach for the creamy dressings). A good rule of thumb when filling your tray is to include food from each of the five food groups: protein, dairy, fruit, vegetables and grains. Another thing to keep in mind is that several stops at the cafeteria a day for small snacks are smarter than loading up for three heavy meals.
2. Get a dorm refrigerator. If you don’t already have one, you can usually rent one from the university. They provide a great way to control your food choices as well as a time savings for when you’re running late for class. Stock up on healthy choices like yogurt, low-fat cheeses and nuts and sports drinks to keep you hydrated.
3. Drinking alcohol overloads your daily calorie intake. Think about it, if one beer is 150 calories, a good happy hour can more than double a normal amount of calories in a day. Try alternating beer with water and you’ll not only ensure that you get your eight glasses of water a day, you’ll reduce your bar tab.
4. Incorporate sports or exercise into every day. Walking to class is a good start, but what about stopping by the university gym to join a work-out class or intramural team? It’s a good way to meet new people and offset all of the hours you’ll spend sitting in class or at the library.
Going off to college is an exciting time, but don’t let the stress of new experiences lead to bad eating habits. Your budget will undoubtedly be tight, you don’t want your clothes to be, too!