The Freshman 15 isn’t a myth – it’s almost a right of passage for newcomers into the college scene. What causes that weight gain? Excessive calorie intake, lack of exercise, and little knowledge on nutrition can all play a big part. If you are trying to keep weight gain at bay during this new school year, try all of these fitness tips and you’ll be feeling good – and looking even better.
1. Move Daily
College can be busy. Between your social life, school, and maybe even work, it can be hard to squeeze in a gym session every single day. If you are cramped on time, make the extra effort to do an ab circuit in your dorm, walk to the library for homework, or squeeze in a 20 minute workout at the gym. Make it a daily priority to get your body moving every day.
2. Watch out for Empty Calories
Soda, candy, chips, basically anything that is packaged and full of preservatives is considered empty calories. Without any nutritional value whatsoever, your body will store these foods as fat. Replace these snacks with a handful of nuts, a piece of fruit, or green tea instead. Your body will thank you later.
3. Steer Clear of “Diet” Foods
Low-sugar drinks, low-fat yogurt, low-calorie cookies, all of these foods are marketed to make you think you are making better choices. In reality, any food labeled “diet”, “low-fat”, or “healthy” actually contain more preservatives and added sweeteners to make them taste somewhat palatable – just take a look at the nutritional facts and ingredients. You are better off eating the real thing than opting for diet anything – but you should steer clear of both overall.
4. Ax all Artificial Sweeteners
Similar to diet foods, artificial sweeteners are widely added to diet sodas, teas, and even coffee. Artificial sweeteners may have no calories, but they are directly linked to cancer. Not only are they bad for your health, but they also trick your brain into feeling more hungry afterwards. Opt for Stevia, an all-natural zero calorie sweetener, to sweeten up your stuff instead.
5. Organic is Always Best
Most people aren’t aware that non-organic food actually have less nutritional value than their organic counterparts. Not only that, but every toxin, chemical, and preservative used in that food is going into your body and wreaking havoc on your internal systems. Spend the extra money for the sake of your health, you only get one body after all.
