Five tips for avoiding the 'Freshman 15'

by Martha Edwards (Subscribe to Martha Edwards's posts)
Sep 12th 2008 9:01AM

Starting 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!

Comments (1)

Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)

Amanda Burke 9-12-2008 @ 4:39PM

I was terrified of gaining the freshman 15 when I started school. I thought it was just a rumor until I stepped into the dining hall. I had to take a step back and go "Wow, okay...I get it." However, it was inevitable. I did gain it. Boo! In order to lose it, I had to combine diet, exercise and threw in an herbal supplement to the mix. The diet and exercise part were almost the easy parts. I had a super hard time figuring out what herbal supplement to take. It's like shopping for a new car! Goodness! In hopes that I can save you some time, I'd like to share with you the one I finally found that I stuck with...

I work for Stacker 2 and I've found that their product, Appuloss Diet works well! Adding Appuloss to diet and exercise may help you to lose lose weight and control your appetite! It gives your metabolism a much needed nudge and may also help to oxidize fat and influence your body weight and composition. This supplement also comes in a diet and energy form that's amazing when you need that extra boost of energy or need help battling diet fatigue!

Head over to www.stacker2.com for more information! (Keep in mind that results may vary and those under 18, pregnant or nursing should not use this product.)

Thanks for the great article and allowing me to comment on your blog! If I can return the favor, email me with your questions or if you'd like more information!

Best,
Amanda Burke
amanda6hrpower@gmail.com