Tips: Foiling The "Freshman 15"

Traditions can be great when it comes to holidays and families but packing on the traditional "Freshman Fifteen" isn't one of them. It's not unusual for college students to gain almost fifteen pounds in their first year away from home.

Just like making smart choices about classes, students need to put some thought into what goes on their plates, too. Follow a few of these tips to keep from piling on the pounds.

Number one: Eat. Yes, that's right. Be sure to eat three meals and two or three snacks a day. Head for the salad bar in the dorm's dining hall and load up half the plate with fresh veggies. Use the rest of the plate for a protein (three-ounces) and a carb, like a baked sweet potato.

Number two: Snack. Fill up on low-fat yogurt, humus, string cheese, almonds or other nuts and fresh fruit.

Tip number three: Move. Walking to class is a start but take the long way there then take the stairs. Try jumping rope or dancing around the room, just find a way to work up a sweat.

The final tip: Drink water all day long. Eight to ten cups a day will keep the pounds away! Use one or use them all and start feeling like a fabulous Freshman who can rock the skinny jeans.

Content provided by Oakland University.