Avoiding the Freshman Fifteen

Rites of passage - graduating from high school, going off to college.. these are all milestones which mark our growth from children to adults. However, one rather unsavoury part of the typical growing up stages which most university students go through is the 'freshman fifteen'.

The term 'freshman fifteen' refers to the weight (15 pounds or 7 kilos) commonly stacked on by first year students (freshman). For the first time in their lives, students are moving out from home, away from parents and home-cooked meals, sharing a communal kitchen with other young students whose diet pyramid looks like this -

The college food pyramid

And let's not forget the booze.

What to do?

1. Be prepared. Some students (me) get taken by surprise when they start packing on the kilos because they had never gained weight quickly before. Know that it might happen, and -

2. Do like a Scout and be prepared. Have a game plan ready.

Part 1 of your game plan would be some no-cook dorm friendly healthy meals -

Oatmeal with fruits

• Oatmeal with fruits

Kickstart your day with rolled oats and milk, easily cooked in the microwave and topped with fruits for added fanciness.

PB&J + Banana sandwich

• Peanut butter and jelly + banana sandwiches.

For an easy, portable and delicious meal.

2-minute Quesadillas

• 2-minute quesadillas

Just layer your favourite quesadillas ingredients (beans / diced tomatoes / avocados / cheese etc.) on a tortilla and microwave for approximately 1 minute.

Part 2 involves activity!

Aim to go for a 15 minute power jog / swim daily, join a sports club (also great for meeting people) and/or try to walk instead of catching public transport if you can.

Recruit a friend to help you stay committed.

With a bit of common sense (not overdoing it with alcohol), you can stay fit and healthy throughout your uni days!