Avoiding the Freshman 15!

Recent studies find that some first-year students are indeed likely to gain weight, but it might not be the full freshman 15 and it may not all happen during freshman year. That might sound like good news, but it's not.

Doctors are concerned that students who gradually put on pounds are establishing a pattern of weight gain that could spell trouble if it continues.

Here are some easy ways to adopt a healthy food attitude:

TIPS:  Take a sound approach to eating

• avoid eating when stressed, while studying, or while watching TV
• eat slowly
• eat at regular times and try not to skip meals
• keep between-meal and late-night snacking to a minimum
• choose a mix of nutritious foods
• pick lower-fat options when you can, such as low-fat milk instead of whole milk or light salad dressing instead of full-fat dressing
• watch the size of your portions
• resist going back for additional servings
• steer clear of vending machines and fast food