My daughter has started her freshman year in college, and Ive heard that many college students gain weight their first year away from home. Should I be concerned?
Research has shown that freshman-year weight gain at college is not a given. While the news often publicizes the “freshman 15”, five to 10 pounds is the average weight gain. Stress, schedule changes, buffet-style cafeterias and admission into a world where you can program “Wings-to-Go” into your telephone speed dial are among the obstacles that make staying fit in college a challenge. The lifestyle of a college student is very different from that of a high school student. American youths are more sedentary these days, and when they get to campus, it often gets worse. Walks to research sessions in the library or even down the hall to visit dorm friends are virtually outmoded because students are now plugged in to technology. Many high school athletes don’t continue their training in college – students who’ve gone from playing two or three sports a year are now doing nothing. The good news is that the majority of colleges have gone to great lengths to provide healthy, delicious choices,
