Ways For College Students To Lose Weight

To shed pounds, you must eat nutritious meals and offset the calories consumed with physical activity. Because the balance may be difficult to achieve with a schedule already packed with classes, homework and social activities, it's vital for college students to blend weight loss strategies into their daily schedule so the habits become second nature.

Recognize Cues

If snacking when bored or studying has become a habit, students may consume excess calories without even realizing it. The University of Michigan Health System recommends learning to recognize the triggers that lead you to reach for food. Keep a food diary to record when you eat, what you were doing and what you were feeling at the time. If the journal reveals that you typically snack unnecessarily when reading for a class or worrying about an upcoming assignment, for example, plan for those situations by studying where food isn't available or by engaging in enjoyable activities, such as a walk around campus, rather than sitting in your room when you're stressed.

Store Healthy Snacks

If you typically relieve your hunger by snacking, lose weight by avoiding foods that are high in fat, sugar or calories. The University of Oregon suggests keeping nutritious tidbits on hand so you won't turn to vending machine junk food such as chips, ice cream, soda or candy bars. If you have a refrigerator available, wash and cut fresh fruits or vegetables and store them along with low-fat yogurt to use as a dip. You can also munch on air-popped popcorn, whole-grain crackers and cereal or rice cakes.

Increase Physical Activity

You can burn off calories from meals and snacks by increasing your physical activity throughout the day. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests exercising for 30 minutes at least three times a week. If you don't have the time or budget to join a gym, work out by joining an intramural sports team, speed walking or riding a bicycle to class, or taking the stairs instead of an elevator, for example.

Eat Regular Meals

Although skipping meals may seem like the key to college weight loss, the opposite will actually help you shed pounds. Illinois State University Campus Dining Services recommends eating three nutritious meals each day, which will also reduce binge eating in the evening due to hunger. Take a tip from Bucknell University and keep your meals healthy by including a serving of fresh fruits and vegetables, limiting fried and creamy foods, asking for half-size portions and skipping dessert if you're not hungry.

Drink Water

You can make your stomach feel full and stay hydrated by drinking water. The University of Oregon recommends drinking at least eight glasses of water each day. Carry a bottle of water when you head to restaurants or parties to avoid drinking soda or alcoholic beverages that are high in calories.