Fighting "The Freshman Fifteen": Tips & My Experience

       Fifteen. It's a relatively small number, however, for teens in college it can be a very daunting figure. As most of us know, fifteen has been deemed the average number of pounds a freshman will gain during their first year in college. Also known as "The Freshman Fifteen" or " The First Year Fatties", it's consensual that this extra “baggage” is less than desirable! Whether the culprit of these unruly additional pounds be the energy dense cafeteria meals, the stress of college life, or the abundance of convenient and unhealthy food eateries, we can all agree that the only thing college students should want to increase are their GPA's, not their pants sizes! 

       As a recent incoming freshman, I too was nervous about being sucked into the unhealthy habits that often consume the hectic and busy lives’ of college students. I was determined to make it a priority to take care of my body whilst away from the comfort of my mother’s fresh home cooking. So naturally as a Nutrition major I took it upon myself to do some research about local farms and co-ops. After a few days of surfing the web I finally came upon a company called, “Boston Organics”. “Boston Organics” is a business that delivers fresh, organic produce to countless customers around the greater Boston area. Their message is to promote and support healthy living in a mindful and sustainable way that respects the environment and supports local farms, local businesses and fair trade practices. After collecting some logistical information about “Boston Organics”, I was eager to try it out for myself. I called up my mom and got the “A-Ok” to start an account. It was extremely easy and inexpensive! The next week I received a crate of beautiful, colorful, organic produce from farms around my area! It was that simple! With my produce I was able to snack on fruits and vegetables, as well as make salads and smoothies of my own. My options were endless!

       So I guess what I’m trying to say is that if you’re passionate about nutrition or just want to be healthier in general during your college career, there are always options! You just have to possess the ambition to want to make a change. And maybe it’s true that I’m a bit biased because I’m studying to be a dietician, but hey, I think the desire to be healthy and feel good about oneself is universal, right?

       So with that being said, I want to share some of my favorite metabolism boosting breakfast foods with you! These healthy alternatives are sure to aid in the battle against “The Freshman 15”!

Just keep in mind that diet AND exercise are important in combating unnecessary weight!

1. The Mother of All Smoothies, The Green Machine:

There are various renditions of the “Green Smoothie” and all have great benefits! Here is one of my personal favorites!

- 3-4 Leaves of Kale (I Like Dinosaur Kale)

- 2 stalks of Celery

- 1 Large Gala Apple

- 1 Large Bosc Pear

- The Juice of ½ of a Lemon

- A Chunk of Fresh Ginger (Add as much as you’d like depending on the amount of kick you want)

- About 1 and ½ cups cold water

-Ice

 Directions:

1. Add contents to blender (I usually blend the kale and water first then continue with the rest of the ingredients)
2. Add ice
3.  You can add more or less water depending on the consistency you prefer; I like mine to be similar to that of a thick(ish) juice.

**IMPORTANT**: For best results with a green smoothie you need to use a high powered blender (Vitamix, Blendtec) If you don’t have a high powered blender you may find your smoothie to be too fibrous.

2. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and will give you energy for the day! Try plain Greek yogurt because the fruit flavored options tend to be high in sugar. You can always add fresh fruit!

- 1 Single Serve Plain Greek Yogurt (I like Fage or Oikos)

-Fruit of your choice (berries, chopped apples, bananas…)

-A handful of walnuts

3. Oatmeal with Fresh Fruit and Nuts

Oatmeal is great when it comes to boosting your metabolism for the day ahead. It is rich in fat-soluble fiber and requires a good amount of calories to break down.

I recommend using 100% whole grain rolled oats. Stay clear of any instant, sweetened counterparts, for they tend to have additives and extra calories!

 4. Grapefruit

Grapefruit is an awesome way to start the morning! It has an energizing tart flavor and can help to reduce insulin levels. As a result, food can be used and processed more efficiently.

-Pair a half of a grapefruit with Greek yogurt or oatmeal to feel full and satiated!

 I hope you’ve enjoyed my tips! Remember these recipes can be used for anyone who wants to become healthier!