The freshman 15 can be tricky to fight off. With a few simple changes/modifications, I'm sure you'll find success! All it takes is a little bit of determination and action! I know, I'm lazy, too. It's hard to find healthy alternatives to your favorite foods. I believe in you, though. I believe you can do it!
1. Your grocery list
Make sure you're out buying tons of fruits and veggies. Also, try to shop for meals! Make a list for each meal, including beverages and snacks! The best part? You don't have to break the bank!
Breakfast: Get the essentials. When buying cereal, go for a granola type! Try Kashi Cereal. Yogurt is just as great, too, and Greek yogurt is even better for you! Buy some honey, too. Get some jam or jelly, and oh, and don't forget the eggs!
Lunch/Dinner: Sweet potatoes sound gross, I know, but they're actually really good for you! They can taste great if you pair them right! Try buying brown rice and whole grain pastas. Get some grilled chicken and salmon. Have a little fun at home – have a "fiesta!" Make sure you have those black beans, red beans and chick peas! Pair them with some cheese on a tortilla with the grilled chicken or salmon!
Snacks: Snacks can be tough to shop for as comfort foods are great snacks. We're trying to steer clear of those! Go for some granola, popcorn or even mixed nuts! Try something new such as, dark chocolate or blue corn chips with salsa.
Beverages: I know, I know I love coffee, too. You can still have coffee, though, just maybe not the usual six cups, but like, four to start out. Go out and buy some water. I personally buy bottled water as it's easier to grab when I'm late for my next class or just in a hurry! Don't forget milk! Try some tea if you don't already drink it, and get some juice! Go for the juices that aren't as high in sugars or corn syrup.
2. Exercise
It sounds like an unnecessary hassle, but trust me, once you get into a routine, you'll never go back. When I was in high school, I was extremely active thanks to sports, but once I came to college, that activeness just ended. Getting my non-Brazilian butt into the gym was hard, but totally worth it! After the first couple weeks, I noticed differences not only physically but also mentally. Oh, and that flat butt? It may not be Brazilian yet, but at least you can tell where my back ends. What really sold it for me was you don't need to go to the gym everyday for hours! Make a schedule! Try going at least three times a week for maybe just an hour. You can build up from there!
3. Rest those pretty eyes
It's hard getting enough sleep in college. Naps become your best friend, once again. Staying up until 3 a.m. might sound great, but oh, let me tell you. It's no fun at all. Making sure you get at least eight hours of sleep is crucial to your health and well being! Make sure you finish your homework and study the night before, so you don't have to worry about it when you should be sleeping or in the morning when once you wake up.
4. Make time for your friends
I know, it takes so much effort to get out of bed, or off of the futon, but let's go! Take your friends out to eat, go out to a movie! Just get out of the dorm room! If you're living on campus, you probably live on a floor with a bunch of other people. Take your new roomie, and go meet your floor-mates! Get a big group of people from your floor, and go bowling! It's a great way to get off campus and meet new people! Who knows, you just might meet your spirit animal. I found my best friend and spirit animal all in one.
5. Organization > Stress
Stay up to date and organized! Stress doesn't do anyone good! Stress can create those mountains others may call "acne." Stress can also increase anxiety levels and make others sick. No one wants to be sick or more anxious than usual. Keep a planner, either hard copy or even an app on your phone! Also, get a calendar for your room, write down all of your important dates and update the calendar!
Keep it sweet and simple. Try a new grocery list! Check out the gym on your campus or your local gym! Make sure you get enough sleep and get your work done. Get off campus and out of that room! Don't forget to stay organized to diminish stress levels. Last, but certainly not least, have a great year without that freshman15!!
