How to Dodge the Freshman 15?

University is probably one of the first steps to becoming an independent adult. But one of the significant adverse effects of this new life is, unfortunately, to the most important one – your health. And it’s all too easy to fall victim to the ‘Freshmen 15’.

For those that are unaware, ‘Freshman 15’ is a term commonly used for those uninvited extra pounds gained by students during the first year of college.

Student life and low budget go hand in hand, which means anything that can save our wallet from draining is attractive. And what makes junk food student’s favourite meal is just that – it gives a pleasant taste and saves money.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle during university can indeed be difficult, but it’s not impossible. With a few tricks and tweaks, if you commit to making a change, your future self will thank you for it.

And before you utter the words ‘eating clean costs too much’ let’s debunk that.

Try to bring homemade meals.

Starting with the no-brainer, bringing homemade meals will stop you from eating out in the first place. It shouldn’t be as daunting as it sounds if you plan well. Whether its to pack the night before or to go full on meal prepping for an entire week, there are many ways you can do it. Search up different ways you can meal prep, you’ll be surprised at how effective and easy it actually is.

Get fit with friends

Kill two birds with one stone. Without having to compromise spending time with friends, get fit along with them. It becomes far more fun and enjoyable when you do it with a bunch of people together that supports each other. Perhaps hit the university’s gym or do some workouts together at any of your homes. Go for a brisk walk and spend some quality time together. Any active sport would do the job if you can spike up your heart rate a little and sweat those tensions away.

Snack wisely.

Long study sessions and writing research papers call for a lot of snacking. For some, it’s so easy to mindlessly binge on them while working.

You only eat what you can find at your arm’s reach. And if what you can see are healthy options, you’re good to go. Snack on nuts and dates, some fresh fruits or even dried fruits.

Cut down on the caffeine.

You only eat what you can find at your arm’s reach. And if what you can see are healthy options, you’re good to go. Snack on nuts and dates, some fresh fruits or even dried fruits.

Coffee is probably every student’s best friend. And having too much caffeine brings more trouble in the long run than to justify its instant kick.

Did you know that having an apple keeps you from being drowsy and helps you stay awake?  It works just like coffee but definitely much better for you. In a way, an apple a day actually does keep the doctor away.

At first glance, some of them may bring a reaction of “easier said than done”. But if you pause for a moment and effectively implement them into your life, slowly but surely you will see the benefits.