Something about the newfound college freedom and access to everything we can imagine makes putting on the pounds that much easier for freshmen.
The good news is as long as you're conscious of the dangers, and you follow these steps, you can stay healthy and maybe take the opportunity to get yourself in shape!
1. Find a way to incorporate exercise into your day
Whether you have access to a gym at school or not, there is always a way for students to exercise. Take the stairs always, never the elevator!
Choose to walk to class or bike instead of taking a car (if you have a car.) Most campuses have walkways and running paths. Even if you don't run, put on your sneakers and walk around for 20 minutes every day!
2. HydrateÂ
Water flushes your body of toxins and helps you to lose weight! Especially if you are eating a lot in a day, drink lots of water to help balance it out. Staying hydrated is extremely important especially while it's still hot out.
Carry a water bottle with you and try to fill it at least 3-4 times a day!
3. Portion your mealsÂ
The buffet-style dining halls can be temptingit'sand it is easy to get carried away and fill your plate with food. However, pick healthy options and try to limit yourself to putting what you'll actually eat on your plate.
Your eyes are bigger than your stomachevery dayand you may eat more than you need to be putting more food in front of you.
4. Watch your alcohol intake
This is probably one of the biggest and sneakiest culprits. It's not just beer that gives you a "beer belly," most alcoholic drinks are filled with sugar or stocked up in calories. You could be eating really healthy, but drinking a lot and you would still put on weight.
Yes, it's college, you're probably going to end up drinking. If you do, look for certain drinks that are low-cal and low sugar!
Just pace yourself and know when to stop.
5. Don't eat past 9 p.m.
every day is a huge one. Think about it, if you eat to satisfy late night munchies and then proceed to go to bed, that pizza you ate is just sitting inside you and it is not leaving.
Instead, drink water or even chocolate milk to fill your tummy and have a nice big breakfast the next morning that you can work off during the day.
