BY: Theodora Biney

Students heading into the hallowed halls of academia look forward to gaining knowledge, insight and experience. But these days, it seems students are likely to gain weight, too. Research from Cornell University, published in the International Journal of Obesity, found that, on average, university freshmen gain a third of a pound each week, totalling approximately four to five pounds during the first three months at school. Over the course of an academic year this number can grow to 10 or 15 pounds of added weight.

“Significant weight gain during the first semester of college is a real phenomenon, with breakfast and lunch at all-you-can-eat dining facilities accounting for 20 per cent of the weight gain,” says David A. Levitsky, professor of nutritional sciences and psychology at Cornell.

Although new surroundings and eating habits may result in unwanted weight gain, students can follow a few easy tips in order to beat the “Freshman 15.”

Control your portion size: Eating smaller portions of food can help you maintain your weight. Don’t go back for seconds at your school’s all-you-can-eat cafeteria.

Stock your dorm room with healthy snacks: Keep sweets to a minimum. Instead, opt for healthier snacks such as nuts, fruits, rice cakes, yogurt, etc.

Keep a food journal: If you are really worried about gaining extra weight, document it. It will allow you to keep track of how many calories you consume in a day.

Avoid alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption will make you gain weight quickly. One beer contains about 150 calories. Drink water: Water is a non-caloric drink, and it keeps you well hydrated. Drinking water instead of sodas and sweetened beverages will help you avoid unwanted calories.

Exercise: You may find it hard to cram exercising into your busy college schedule, but it is essential to keeping the weight off.

By taking control of eating habits, calories and related activities, maintaining a healthy weight will be easier than an open-book exam!

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