Avoiding the Freshman 15: Healthy Choices

Aired on Lifetime Television
April 13 and May 25, 2008
Show 508

When people pack up for college, they often come back packing on the pounds. After all, Americans gobble up 350 slices of pizza per second, and college students are a big part of that statistic. There's a reason it's called the "Freshman 15."  Want to avoid it?  Just make some simple, educated choices so you don't have a "Sophomore Slump." Start with portion control. In 1955, the average fast food meal had 590 calories. Today, it averages 1,350 calories. Instead of a super-size meal, try a smaller size or skip the sides. Small changes matter, too: giving up five whipped cream mocha lattes per week can save 104,000 calories per year. That's equivalent to 29.7 lbs.! Try to avoid portion distortion, too. Your dinner plate should be one fourth meat or protein, one fourth with a starch like rice, corn, or potatoes, and the rest can be vegetables. And since you're at college anyway, try learning something while you're away, like how to make a few healthy recipes that are simple and delicious. Food is everywhere at college -- resist the temptation and do you body a favor by making super-smart choices to stay healthy.  And remember, you don't have to be a PhD – or even in college – to follow these simple, healthy lifestyle tips.