The freshman 15 is every college kid's nightmare. It's up there on a student's list of fears with the fungus on the shower floor and the fact that you have to do your own laundry. But there are ways to change your predetermined fate and make staying fit in college an easy task.

1. Sleep soundly at night for six to eight hours, and avoid naps.

2. Drink your coffee black, or just drink tea.

3. Eat three square meals a day, even if it feels like you don't have time.

4. Enjoy the fresh fruit and vegetable options.

5. Choose the healthy wrap over the burger... sometimes.

6. Ice cream is a tempting dessert, but low-fat vanilla yogurt can be good, too.

7. Walk everywhere you can. Legs make good transportation.

8. Realize that alcohol consumption is calorie consumption.

9. Drink water, and lots of it.

10. Take advantage of the free on-campus gym.

11. Attend group fitness classes.

12. Partake in any outdoor programs your school offers.

13. Yoga isn't only exercise; it also relieves stress! Bonus!

14. Studying can be boring, and boredom leads to snacking. Feed your mind before your belly.

15. Check into your school's health and wellness center if you have any questions.

You can beat the freshman 15. There is support through your school staff, your family, your peers and me.

Or you can take this approach to the freshman 15, which is fine too! Your body is a temple, though, so make sure to nurture and cherish it.