Going to college and living in a dorm is a big change and can make it challenging to keep healthy. The freshman fifteen is a real thing - but it doesn't have to be! Staying healthy in college actually isn’t that hard if you know how to do it. Here are a few tips:

Make good choices in the dining hall

Sure, it’s tempting to grab a burger and fries or a slice of pizza – they are usually right there in a very convenient spot. But have you ever tried the salad bar? There are healthy options in the dining hall! Unfortunately, they aren’t usually front a center. You may have to go looking for them but I promise they are there!

Keep your dorm stocked with healthy foods

Having healthy food in your dorm is the real key to staying healthy. If you only have unhealthy choices around, you’re not doing yourself any good. Stock your mini fridge with stuff like fresh fruits and veggies, yogurts, cheese sticks, and hummus. Swap the Oreos and Doritos for healthier snack options, such as granola bars and whole grain crackers. By doing this, you will be less likely to snack on junk foods.

Think ahead about eating on the go

If you know you have busy days where you are go-go-go between classes, prepare food in advance to avoid just eating whatever is available (and usually not so healthy). Packets of trail mix and protein bars make excellent choices for on the go snacking!

Set aside time to go to the gym

Being healthy isn’t all about food – it’s also about exercising! Take advantage of your free membership to the student recreation center! Working out should not feel like a chore. It is very important to find something you enjoy doing. I suggest trying group fitness classes.

Stay hydrated

Hydration is essential to health. The average person should drink 64 ounces of water every day (about four standard water bottles). To make sure you are drinking enough, always carry a water bottle with you. Also try to limit your consumption of soda, juice, and coffee. These may be liquids but they are not hydrating drinks.

Cut back on the alcohol

I know getting obliterated at parties is fun, and it’s okay to do on occasion. But doing it every weekend is not so great for your health. Alcohol is damaging to your organs, dehydrates you, and can contribute to weight gain.

Get enough sleep

Sleep can do wonders for your health. Between all of the studying, hanging out with friends, and binge-watching Netflix into the wee hours of the night, it is very easy to become chronically sleep deprived. Try to aim for 8 hours of sleep every night. If that means setting a bedtime for yourself, do it. Try to stick to it most nights – I mean, having a social life is a key to being healthy too, so don’t let it interfere with your quality time with friends. Just maybe cool it with the Netflix.

Practice relaxation to reduce stress

Focusing too much on school is no good and brings on a lot of unnecessary stress. Find something that helps you relax, whether it be listening to music, reading, yoga, coloring, etc. and take time to do it! Being stressed messes with your hormones and emotions. So make sure you find a healthy outlet.