Attending college can be one of the most exciting times in a young adult’s life. However, college can also be a time of struggle, especially when it comes to maintaining a healthy weight. For many students, the transition to college life brings with it an increase in unhealthy snacking, late-night eating, and drinking alcohol. This can lead to an unwelcome weight gain of 15 pounds or more, which is often referred to as the “Freshman 15”.
While it can be difficult to resist the temptations of college life, it is possible to maintain a healthy weight. In this article, I will provide some tips for resisting the freshman 15, so that you can stay healthy and fit during your college years.
I will provide advice on how to make healthy food choices, how to resist late-night eating, and how to incorporate exercise into your daily routine. I will also provide tips on how to handle stress and how to stay motivated to stay fit and healthy.
Develop A Nutrition Plan
Having a nutrition plan is essential to maintaining a healthy weight during college. Knowing when and what to eat can help to prevent overeating, and ensure that your body is getting the right amount of nutrients. Start by making a list of healthy snacks that you can have on hand, so that you don’t reach for junk food when you get the munchies. Aim to include a variety of food items that are low in sugar, but high in protein and fiber. This will help to keep your energy levels up and keep you feeling full.
Planning out your meals for each day can also help to keep you on track. Aim for a balanced diet that includes lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Avoid skipping meals, as this can lead to overeating and cravings for unhealthy snacks.
You should also pay attention to portion sizes. This can be tricky, especially when you’re eating out at a dining hall or restaurant. When in doubt, go for a smaller portion and save the rest for later. This will help you to avoid overeating, and it’s also a great way to save money.
By developing a nutrition plan, you can take control of your eating habits and ensure that you’re getting the right amount of nutrients each day. This will help to keep your energy levels up and prevent the dreaded freshman 15. Now, let’s move on to the next step: staying active and exercising regularly.
Stay Active And Exercise Regularly
Another key element to maintaining a healthy weight in college is to stay active and exercise regularly. This doesn’t mean that you have to commit to an intense fitness plan; even just taking a daily walk or doing a few simple exercises can make a difference. Regular physical activity can help you to stay fit, reduce stress levels, and boost your energy. Plus, it can help you to build strong muscles and bones to keep you healthy and strong.
To further achieve your healthy weight goals, it’s essential to also manage stress and get enough sleep.
Manage Stress And Get Enough Sleep
From managing stress to getting enough sleep, there are plenty of ways to keep your mental and physical wellbeing in check during college. Staying active and exercising regularly plays an important role in maintaining a healthy weight, but it’s just as important to make sure you’re taking care of your mental and emotional wellbeing.
The college years can be a stressful time. Between class, work, and social obligations, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. To keep your stress levels in check, it’s important to make time for yourself each day. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a walk, or meditating, taking a few moments to relax can help to keep your stress levels down and improve your overall wellbeing.
It’s also important to get enough sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, college students should be getting at least seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, and try to limit distractions such as screens and noise in your bedroom. Getting enough sleep can help to keep your energy levels up and help you stay focused throughout the day.
With these tips in mind, you can make sure you’re taking care of yourself and resist the freshman 15. Now, let’s move on to the next step: making healthy swaps in your diet.
Make Healthy Swaps In Your Diet
Making healthy swaps in your diet can be a great way to resist the freshman 15. Instead of opting for fast food and junk food, try to make healthier choices. Swap out sugary sodas and energy drinks for water or unsweetened tea. Choose whole grain breads and brown rice over white bread and white rice. Instead of processed snacks, reach for fresh fruits and vegetables. Making these small changes can make a big difference in your health.
When it comes to meals, try to include lean proteins, like fish, chicken, and beans. Instead of fried foods, opt for grilled or baked options. Limit your intake of saturated fats and added sugars. And if you’re feeling like treating yourself, you can still enjoy your favorite foods in moderation. Just remember to keep your portion sizes in check and don’t forget to get plenty of physical activity.
Conclusion
Maintaining a healthy weight in college can be a challenge, but it is not impossible. With a few simple tips and the right approach, you can make a real difference in your overall health and wellbeing.
First, establish a regular exercise routine and make sure to get plenty of sleep. Second, watch what you eat and make sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet. Finally, find a way to manage stress, whether that means taking a break from studying or joining a club or activity.
If you take the time to establish healthy habits, you can resist the freshman 15 and stay on track with your weight loss goals. With dedication and consistency, you can make a real difference in your overall health and wellbeing.
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