Avoid The Freshman 15

College Kids,

I just started school and am afraid of gaining the "Freshman 15". Do you have any advice?

Tasha
18 Years Old
Clayton, CA

Tasha,

College life can be very demanding at times. With all your classes, social lives, and jobs, keeping healthy can sometimes take a back seat. To stay healthy you must remember to take a little time for your self and be smart. Here are some tips:

Exercise - This is the most obvious, and most important thing you can do to stay healthy. You should exercise several times a week. Remember, exercise does not always have to be going to the gym. It can be playing a sport, riding a bike, or anything that gets you outside and moving. If you do not play a sport for school you might want to join an intramural team, they are lots of fun.
Eat Healthy - This can be hard in college cafeterias, but most schools have healthy alternatives. If they do not, put in a request for healthier foods.
Eat Smaller Meals - When your busy you sometimes have to combine meals. This is very bad for you. If you know you have multiple classes in a row then you should at least bring a snack with you.
Reduce Your Stress - This is easier said than done and there is not one way to do it. Everyone has different things they do to reduce stress and you need to find what works for you. Once you do you will feel (and look) a lot better.
Stay Away From Fast Food - Sometimes it is late, you are hungry, and you need some quick food. So what do you do? You go to BK or call Dominoes. This is fine on occasion, but if done frequently, your might find yourself upgrading you pants size.
Drink Water Not Soda - When people talk about dieting they always talk about food and sometimes forget to talk about the beverage department. Sodas and energy drinks are commonly consumed in dorm rooms. These drinks are some of the most unhealthy drinks you can consume. My advice: drink water or juice instead.

Cheers!

The College Kids