Dear MATC Dietetics Students,
Have you heard of the Freshman 15? This is the belief that students gain weight in the first year of college. This quickly became a popular cultural reference in both the United States and Canada. Is the Freshman 15 a myth or reality?
Dear MATC Student.
This is a great question. According to Journal of American College Health, researchers studied both men and women and found mixed results. One study indicated that men were more likely to gain weight with an average of three pounds, while females gained only one pound. While this study suggests the Freshman 15 is an exaggeration, there are other studies that indicate students may gain up to 15 pounds their freshman year. Several factors that may contribute to this might include: food choices, stress, lifestyle changes and social influences.
To support healthy eating throughout the school year, students can benefit from practical tips like preparing balanced meals ahead of time and maintaining regular exercise. Freshmen,
who may have relied on their parents for most meals, are now in control of deciding what to eat, when to eat, and how much to eat. For some, the buffet style dining provided at most colleges may be overwhelming and tempting – encouraging poor portion control and overeating. Without guidance, newfound unhealthy eating habits may lead to potential weight gain or the “Freshman 15.”
Stress and lifestyle changes are additional factors to potential weight gain. For freshmen, transitioning to a new school can bring academic pressure and social adjustments, which can be a significant source of stress and lead to comfort eating. Additionally, changes in daily routine may lead to a busier schedule which can be a reason why one exercises less. The combination of stress, comfort eating, and exercising less can lead to the dreaded Freshman 15.
To support a healthy start to freshman year, it would be beneficial to plan your meals in advance by meal prepping. As a general tip, avoid fast food when possible and plan meals that offer a variety of essential nutrients using vegetables, fruits, protein, whole grains and healthy fats. A balanced diet, along with incorporating regular exercise and positive outlets to cope with stress can further increase health and wellbeing, and you might just avoid the Freshman 15 altogether.
Have a Diet Dilemma? Send an email to [email protected] or corner one of your friendly dietetics students at MATC West Allis Campus. Anonymous MATC Dietetics students answer your diet dilemmas and help you make wise decisions.
