One of the biggest problems faced by college freshman is weight gain. I'm sad to say that I watched the pounds pack on during my time in college. However, you don't have to sit back and watch the same thing happen to you. There are a number of ways you can help prevent weight gain during your first year in college. Whether you learn to relax or stay away from the booze, you can stay thin. Here are just five ways to prevent weight gain during your first year of college.
Find a Way to Relax
Stress is one of the major reasons people gain weight. Students entering their first year of college usually encounter more stress than they have ever faced. With full-time class schedules and part-time to full-time work, it can be hard not to feel the strain. However, you need to find a way to relax or you will quickly find yourself gaining weight. Whether you read a good book or play a few video games, you need to make time for yourself each evening to beat the stress.
Stay Active
It may seem impossible to find time to exercise with the heavy workload. Unfortunately, if you're not active, you'll quickly see the pounds start packing on. You can go for a walk in between classes, do a bit of weight lifting in the mornings before class or even do a few laps in the school's pool. Regardless, you must stay active.
Make Smart Meal Choices
The occasional slice of pizza will not make you gain weight. Of course, if you're eating pizza and fast food every night, you will see the number on the scale rise. You need to focus on eating as healthy as possible 80-90% of the time. Most college cafes have salads and there are a number of low-calorie, low-fat frozen dinners that can prepared in your dorm room microwave.
Use Food for an Energy Boost
Instead of turning to coffee and sugary drinks for a boost of energy, eat healthy snacks. For example, foods high in protein can give you a great boost of energy that won't leave you feeling horrible afterward. Keep some mixed nuts, beef jerky and other high protein snacks handy at all times.
Skip the Alcohol
Last, but not least, you'll probably be invited to a number of parties, but remember that alcohol is loaded with calories. Whether you're drinking beer or mixed drinks, you will be consuming several hundred calories. Skip the alcohol and save those calories for something healthier.
You don't have to gain weight during your first year of college. There are a number of easy things you can do to help keep the weight off.
