How to avoid the freshman 15
If this is your first time attending college it can be a drastic change from high school, where the comfort of your own home has now led you to be on your own in the dorms. You may hear the phrase “the freshman 15” every now and again.
Author:James PierceReviewer:Paolo ReynaAug 09, 20212.2K Shares163.3K Views
If this is your first time attending college it can be a drastic change from high school, where the comfort of your own home has now led you to be on your own in the dorms. You may hear the phrase “the freshman 15” every now and again. However, you’re probably cocking your head in confusion wondering what this means. It’s the college slang for those pesky 15 pounds you can put on during your freshman year. Although it may not sound like much of an issue, gaining weight so suddenly isn’t something to shrug off. Here’s how you can avoid the dreaded weight gain your first year.
How It Occurs
Whether you gain weight depends on you and your day-to-day life during the newfound hectic lifestyle. You’d be amazed at the bad habits we subconsciously pick up during our first year of college. In fact, there are plenty of bad habits that can cause weight gain. Here’s a list of the most common:
- Eating late at night
- Refraining from eating at certain times
- Having a poor sleep schedule
- Not getting in enough physical activity
- Drinking alcohol excessively
Alcohol, in particular, is a leading cause of weight gain. It can also disrupt your sleep as well. Not getting enough sleep is also a contributing factor. The less energy you have, the more likely you are to make poor food choices. The same rings true for coffee drinks. Due to the calorie count and excessive amount of sugar, certain drinks can also pack on the pounds.
Weight gain can negatively affect your mental health as well. Being overweight is a leading cause of low self-esteem. Seeing yourself in a bad light could eventually lead to depression. Maintaining healthy mindset in college students is first-time key to your overall happiness and success. You can review a guide on how to find support in mental health in college studentswhether you’re on or off campus.
Stay Active
It should go without saying that sitting in a chair all day is not good for you. Without physical activity, your metabolism slows downand you may gain weight. Your metabolism is what helps burn off fat and calories. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to get your metabolism high and burn calories efficiently. You can incorporate short bursts of activity throughout your day by performing sets of squats, arm circles or even running in place. When possible, get up should every hour to stretch and walk around.
Stay Hydrated
Some people tend to underestimate the power of water and the role it plays in your body. Drinking water helps your body clear out toxins, helps with the digestive process, improves blood circulation and improves the integrity of your skin. What’s more is that water can boost your metabolism and makes it easier for you to lose weight. Try to drink at least eight glasses of water a dayto stay hydrated and feel full. Oftentimes, thirst can mimic hunger, which leads to eating when you’re not really hungry.
James Pierce
Author
Paolo Reyna
Reviewer
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