Avoiding freshman 15—i t doesn't have to be a requirement.
The infamous freshman 15 (or 20) refers to the pounds a freshman girl could gain between September and summer break during her first year of college. For many girls, this is the first time they've been away from home, and there are a lot of reasons that they gain weight.
The student-dining hall. So many food choices! But not all of them are healthy. It's up to you to choose wisely— no one will tell you not to have two desserts or remind you to eat vegetables. Stress city. You're given a lot of new responsibilities like deciding on courses, keeping up with your schoolwork, and making new friends— all in a new environment. Worry and tension may cause you to eat even when you aren't hungry. Wake me when it's over. During freshman year you'll probably get less sleep than at any other time in your life. You may get the midnight munchies because you're up studying and it's been seven hours since dinner. Or the entire dorm is awake for a late night pizza party. Beer belly. If you have made the choice to drink while at college, remember that alcohol is high in calories and can add additional pounds. Also, keep in mind the effects alcohol can have on your mind and body— not to mention that it's illegal if you're underage.
How to avoid freshman 15
You can work it off . Find time for physical activity. Exercise helps you burn calories, clears your mind, and relieves some stress. Check out your school's fitness center. Eat right. Eat a well-balanced diet and make healthy food choices, including low-fat meats and fish, whole grains, and lots of fruits and vegetables. Pick entrees that are baked, broiled or steamed— not fried. At midnight have fruits and vegetables handy for snacks. Just a sliver. Avoid foods like French fries, cream sauces, and pecan pie. Learn where excess calories are hiding in so-called "healthy" food like regular salad dressing, fruit yogurts, and granola. Pay attention to portion size. Large quantities of even low-fat foods can add calories and pounds. Share the goods . While you don't want to miss out on the pizza parties, you can reduce the damage. Skip the high-fat toppings like pepperoni and extra cheese and invite in extra friends to share the calories. Don't be a boozehound . At parties, avoid alcoholic beverages that contain hundreds of calories. Have a diet soda or sparkling water. If you are old enough to drink alcohol and choose to, stay away from salty snacks that add calories and cause you to drink more.
Freshman year is stressful enough without worrying about gaining weight. By making healthy food choices, the process of avoiding freshment 15 is possible without feeling deprived.
Learn about avoiding freshman 15 and learn helpful tips and tricks at BeingGirl.com.
