Health and wellness gurus tells us that the first-time college student typically gains about 15 pounds their first year on campus. Why? Many attribute this change to lack of parental control over meals and personal habits, tight schedules that don't permit students to eat real meals at decent times, peer pressure to eat at parties and student gatherins, stress and emotional changes, inability to access healthy foods and/or making bad food decisions. It appears, at least on the surface, this weight gain is inevitable. But, can it be avoided? Daphne Oz, author of The Dorm Room Diet: The 8-Step Program for Creating a Healthy Lifestyle Plan that Really Works
, may have found a way to keep these pounds at bay.Ms. Oz's plan is fairly simple:
- find your motivation;
- review the myths and facts associated with the freshman 15, review your options, and find your ideal calorie intake level;
- eath healthy;
- determine your danger zones and learn how to survive them;
- get moving;
- add vitamins and supplements to your diet; and
- work to build a happier, more relaxed, effective you.
Sound too simple? Maybe. Step-programs, whether 8-steps like Ms. Oz's program or 12-steps, aren't the answer for everyone. But she has put together many good tips (such as keeping healthy snacks on hand, not eating close to bedtime, defining why you're eating, learning healthy habits and increasing your physical activity).
The book is targeted to female students of traditional college age and the author takes the stance that students have a variety of eating options on campus; but, I think Ms. Oz certainly has a valid point. Motivated individuals can stay healthy and avoice the dreaded "freshman 15" if they (1) choose to do so and (2) make active efforts to do so.
If you would like more information on The Dorm Room Diet: The 8-Step Program for Creating a Healthy Lifestyle Plan that Really Works
, this book is available now at bookstores and through online retailers. ($16.95 USD)Also, in February I'll post an article covering my interview with Ms. Oz. Interested readers should return to Colleges to read Ms. Oz's views and comments on how this diet applies in the lives of busy students.
Until next time!
Lynn Byrne
Preparing for college admissions? Trying to find direction? Need a little help with the planning? Check out my college planning series:
- College Planning Made Easy--the planning and preparation workbook for the take charge, college-bound student,
- Paying for College Made Easy--a college financing guide designed to assist students and families in preparing and planning for higher education expenses; and
- The Great Scholarship Search--my guide for students and parents researching and applying for scholarship funding.
