Five tips for avoiding the 'Freshman 15'
Posted on Sep 12th 2008 9:01AM by Martha EdwardsStarting college this year? You're at risk of putting on the dreaded 'Freshman 15' -- referring, of course, to the 15 or so pounds you might put on as you adjust to the life of a student. It's nothing to be ashamed of; you're going through lots of changes -- adjusting to dorm life, making new friends, being out on your own for the first time -- so it's really only natural to find comfort in food, and it happens to lots of us.
But consider this piece of wisdom from someone who's been there: It's a lot easier to gain 15 lbs than to lose it. So nip this weight gain in the bud with these tips:
- Find more productive ways to deal with stress and emotions than food -- like working out at the campus gym
- Make sure at least half of your meal or snack is healthy fruits or veggies. They'll halp you fill you hunger without piling on the pounds.
- Walk! Campus is a big place -- explore it on foot and burn calories at the same time.
- Set rules for yourself -- like no seconds at the dining hall. It's ok to break them sometimes, but try to stay in line.
- Enjoy healthy snacks at study sessions, like fruits and veggies. As an added bonus, your new friends will thank you.
Fitsugar recently covered this topic too -- check out their tips for more inspiration!












