Coming into college, I feared gaining the infamous "Freshman 15" like the plague. I was told by friends and family alike to watch my weight, as if that was he one thing I needed to be concerned with in college.
I did find myself gaining some weight from late night studying, minimal sleep, and the fastest food I could get. But once I figured out the equation of losing weight and cramming for finals, I knew I'd want to share it for those struggling between wanting to not gain weight and not wanting to care.
1. Stop snacking (so much)
This was arguably the hardest one for me. Rather than the recommended 3-5 small meals a day, I wouldn't have any set meals and would just snack all day. When I started setting times for myself to eat rather than eating when I was bored or when I was around others who were eating, I noticed a change in my weight and in my energy.
2. Don't eat too late at night
I struggled with this as well, as I've kept a part-to-full time job during my time in college. Eating too late at night doesn't allow your body time to burn off any of it. If you do have to eat late at night, don't eat anything considered "heavy".
3. Drink water
Often times when you're feeling snacky, your body is trying to tell you that you're getting dehydrated. While Red Bull and coffee may sound more appealning before your 8am lecture, your body will thank you if you grab your cute S'Well body instead.
4. Get some sleep
This may be the hardest step but, I promise, you can do it!
Work on assignments in your own time and don't stay up until 2am binge-watching Scandal. You're more likely to eat foods higher in sugar wen you need energy, so be weary.
5. Take time for yourself
Stress leads to stress eating. Enough said. Stress is inevitable but don't put more stress on yourself when you don't have to.
Don't torture yourself- eat the Cheetos, treat yourself to your favorite coffee in the morning. But recognize your bad habits and enjoy the bad stuff in moderation!
