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Illustration by Rebecca
Straughmatt |
Don’t let freshman stresses bring the waist
line blues
Heather Cutler
Mesa Legend
The first year of college for many teens is
usually one of the most difficult years in his or her life. No matter
how many times students tell themselves that the change of schools,
living arrangements, and friends won’t be too overwhelming,
reality soon sets in and makes he or she realize that college life
is a completely different world. Therefore, the ‘Freshman
15’ for many takes over.
‘Freshman 15’ is the slang term for the 15 pounds that
is commonly gained in the first year of college by both men and
women. The added weight is brought on partially by the student’s
new surroundings. Cafeterias, vending machines, soda machines, and
nearby all-you-can-eat restaurants, account for the majority of
weight gained due to the fact that food is often craved when a student
studies. With fast, unhealthy, and calorie-filled foods close at
hand, weight gain is inevitable.
Another way weight is rapidly gained is through alcohol consumption,
which is a factor in all colleges where students are much more exposed
to drinking alcohol. Alcohol is full of calories and is also a supporter
of overeating because when students drink he or she is more likely
to snack on fatty foods such as chips, pretzels, or fast food, said
Barbra Rolls, PhD, of the College of Health and Human Development
at Pennsylvania State University.
Therefore, with the overwhelming peer-pressure to drink and fraternity
parties almost every night and guaranteed on weekends, a college
student’s health and weight are both at risk.
So, how does a student make sure that he or she is eating correctly
and not gaining unwanted pounds? Molly Kimball, a registered dietarian
and sports nutritionist suggests making a plan of regular eating
habits. Three properly balanced meals each day will help prevent
weight gain. Another tool often used by many is trying to snack
on healthy foods such as fruit and resisting temptation from fatty
foods like chips or fast food.
Exercise is vital to maintaining a healthy body and mind. Many colleges
are equipped with some kind of gym that is available to students
for free or for a very low cost. This is a very valuable source
for keeping in shape.
The ‘Freshman 15’ is fairly common amongst teenagers,
however, with the proper diet and knowledge of how to avoid weight
gain, the first year of college may go by smoother than expected.
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