Battling the Bulge: Eating Right and Exercising in College

June 11, 2009 | StudentStuff Staff

From studying and test taking to socializing and work, college students already have a lot on their plates. But they should also be concerned with what’s on their breakfast, lunch, and dinner plates. According to the National College Health Risk Behavior Survey, 20.5% of college students were classified as being overweight based on body mass index (BMI) calculations. These facts are further supported by findings from Washington University in St. Louis which found that about 70 percent of students gained a significant amount of weight between the start of college and the end of sophomore year. So what can you do to gain only knowledge, not pounds, from your college experience?

The Fat Facts

That behavior study we mentioned earlier also found 46.4% of college students were attempting weight loss at the time of the survey. The problem appears to stem from the sudden change in lifestyle. Students arrive on campus having lived at home where they had their meals in a structured manner. Breakfast, lunch and dinner were taken care of and kids were likely told what times they would be eating. However, in college the independent lifestyle has a major impact on when and what students eat. Though most students enroll in some sort of meal plan, they don’t necessarily eat three meals a day. In fact, many students skip meals when classes interfere with their day, and when they do eat they aren’t getting the nutrients needed to maintain a healthy weight.

Eating Better

Some good news comes from career service provider Experience, Inc. which did a poll in 2006 focused on wellness. It revealed that 55% of college students eat a balanced diet of protein, carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables and dairy three to six times a week and 46% said they eat breakfast every day. As for the other 45% without a balanced diet, we recommend they make a conscious effort to eat fruits and vegetables, as well as take a multi-vitamin. Drink lots of water to flush out your system, especially if you drink alcohol. Stay with low calorie, low fat foods—78% of students eat high fat foods up to twice a day.

Fit as a Fiddle

The poll found that 51% of students exercise three or more times a week, with approximately 40% exercising at a fitness club or facility. Staying active is critical to controlling your weight and overall health. Now that you’re in college, you will likely have access to the campus health club. Check out the facilities and start going. Find out if they have exercise classes you can attend or, if you want closer attention, inquire about personal trainers. While your membership to the fitness club may be free with your student I.D., additional services are available and usually at a discounted rate. You might also consider going out for a sports team, or enrolling in a physical education class that will get your heart rate up and earn you credits.

There are several other ways to get your exercise in when the day gets too busy. We suggest walking to class as well as between classes. Take the long route when you can and enjoy the cardio exercise.

The Ongoing Benefits

Experience, Inc. found 23% of college students reported that juggling work and school created the most stress in their lives. To deal with everyday stress, 25% of college students turn to exercise. And the benefits to maintaining a healthy lifestyle don’t end there. Exercise will not only help you deal with the stress of college, it’ll increase your energy levels and keep you in shape for those long nights of studying. So remember to eat healthy and exercise, and you’ll ensure your college career is academically, as well as physically rewarding.

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Check out our Health & Fitness section for more tips to help you get through college.

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Battling the Bulge: Eating Right and Exercising in College

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