Back to College, Back to Weight Gain

You resent those images of college students with toned bodies. Are they for real? It's been almost two months since the opening of the semester, and you have five pounds to show. And you'll likely add more before Thanksgiving. You promise to gorge on your mother's favorite dishes, after all the readings and assignments. You deserve a reward, but wait. You made a resolution a few months ago. A thin you. What happened?

If you're not one of those students who must scrimp for the entire term, then you struggle to let go of old habits that keep you from getting lean. You might be among the thirteen percent of Americans who are overweight or obese. It's the highest in the world, but you shouldn't be ashamed. It's hard to resist the pizza after you can't figure out the book you're reading. And you keep on wondering why there's a need to study (and write) about the classics. What about Archie Andrews?

It's not yet too late. If you can't find the time to work it out, which is understandable, then there are other ways. It's not an easy to do these things, where you might succumb to cheat day (or week). Let's take a look:

Ditch the soda. You discovered Britney Spears's "Joy of Pepsi" on YouTube, and you couldn't helped but watched it again and again. And you found out that drinking Pepsi was cool. But you didn't notice your waistline. If you're not a Britney Spears fan, then you're one of those who didn't outgrow Pepsi. It's OK. Maybe it's time you substitute it with orange juice. It may not suit you, especially if you have a deadline to beat. But it can be a habit. The first two weeks may be tough, but try the delay gratification. You may give in your craving after a couple of weeks, but only once. If you don't trust yourself, then think of other ways to reward yourself. How about attend a party next Saturday? A can of beer or two will do. But no more than that.

Walk. It's the easiest thing to do, without exerting effort. Unless you'll be late for class. In fact, this is the best time to spend a lot of time on it. Think about the shades of red and yellow and orange. Don't forget your coat! There's no excuse, especially if you have to save for next week. (It might be worse if it's next month, but it won't be the end of the world.) And you don't have to think about it too often. You'll lose weight, sooner or later. As long as...

You pass up the pizza. Life stinks, right? It's not fair as you think. One slice is enough. Your body needs all the energy and nutrients it can get, which comes from a variety of food. Don't forget salad. Channel your inner Garfield (and go for lasagna). Sandwich is always a good choice. This brings us to burger. Another tempting meal. Don't overeat it, as all the greasy stuff can be dangerous to your health.

If you still can't imagine doing these things for two weeks or less, then find someone who has done it. Your social life can be another motivator. Perhaps a different look can elicit the reaction you want.