Dorm living doesn't have to mean a steady diet of take-out pizza and burgers. But late-night studying, fatty cafeteria meals and late-night snacking can lead to some unhealthy habits and weight gain. Joan Salge Blake, a registered dietitian at Boston College, told MyFox Boston in a 2007 interview that the "freshman 15" is largely a myth, but students do need to practice some good habits in order to eat healthy while living in a dorm.
Step 1
Eat breakfast. Katherine Zeratsky, a registered dietitian contributing to MayoClinic.com, reports that skipping breakfast increases your risk of obesity. When you don't eat breakfast your body thinks you're fasting and increases fat storage. In addition, if you skip breakfast you're more likely to be hungry and give in to temptation later.
Step 2
Buy fruit and keep it in your dorm. Instead of snacking on chips and cookies, reach for an apple. Most fruit requires no refrigeration, is inexpensive and contains fiber to help fill you up. Fruit also contains vitamins and minerals you need.
Step 3
Fill your plate with vegetables. Joan Salge Blake states in her MyFox interview that vegetables are low in calories and high in fiber, so they'll fill you up. When you go through the cafeteria line, fill half your plate or more with vegetables.
Step 4
Drink water. Skip the soda and alcohol in favor of water. If you want flavor, add a small amount of fruit juice or make iced tea. Drink skim milk with meals for an extra boost of calcium. Joan Salge Blake noted that a 20-oz. soda contains over 250 empty calories. The health education page on the University of Oregon website suggests you carry a water bottle with you to class.
Step 5
Study in the library. Instead of cramming for tests in your dorm room, where fatty, salty snacks may be within easy reach, head to the library, where you won't be able to eat. You'll be able to focus on your books instead of food.
Things You'll Need
- Fruit
- Vegetables
- Water bottle
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