Freshman Fifteen - Is it Avoidable?

Freshman 15, aka freshman fifteen, is a condition in which a college freshmen student will gain 15 pounds during the first semester of college. Freshman 15 is not a virus or a disease. It is more of a common term than a medical condition. It is a time in which a college student now needs to take responsibility about their eating habits and the consequences to their health.

Females are More Effected than Males

It is a well known fact that the metabolism of a male burns calories twice as fast as a women, and are therefore more susceptible to weight gain. It is also a known fact that females in college eat more junk food than males. This weight gain comes easier for college women that have been very active in high school sports and now are no longer pursuing any physical activity. The calories are not being burned up like they were in the past. This is why healthy eating habits and physical exercise are very important.

The Causes of this Condition

The causes are simple to name, but may not be so simple to overcome. Causes include unhealthy eating choices in the cafeteria, unhealthy snacks in the dorm room, too much alcohol, and lack of physical exercise.

The Freshman 15 Challenge

The challenge is quite simple. Challenge yourself to staying physically fit and eating healthy to avoid being labeled with this condition. It can be done, but it may take some discipline. Here's how to obtain a first place trophy in the marathon against Freshman 15.

Regular Exercise

Exercising is the biggest weapon against this condition. Working out helps keep you muscles toned, while running helps burn the fat and calories. Here's a bonus: freshman who exercise regularly tend to be able to drink more without the worry of gaining weight.

Cafeteria Food

It really doesn't take a college student to know that eating unhealthy foods will help pack on those extra pounds. You need to know which food to avoid while eating in the cafeteria. Here is a list of foods to start avoiding.
- Sweets such as ice cream and cookies
- Fried foods
- Unidentifiable meat
- Cream cheese
- Chips
- Donuts

Drinking Alcohol Excessively