Regan’s Remedies: April 10, 2014

By Regan Hoerl

SC Staff Writer 

The freshman 15 is not a scare tactic to get you to eat well — it is a real thing.

Believe me, I’ve been there.

We are constantly being told how to lose weight, eat better, exercise correctly, and watch our figure.

With this in mind, I’ve learned a few valuable things when I’ve tried to lose weight that have worked for me and are sure to work for you.

First and foremost, watch your alcohol consumption.

Sure, you could eat less and drink more, but the calories from alcohol are empty calories.

It metabolizes differently than other foods and changes the way your organs function.

Your liver cannot process alcohol the way it is supposed to if you consume alcohol quickly and in large consumption.

It has no nutritious value and is a diuretic, causing you to become more dehydrated than from eating a cheeseburger.

This leads me to my second point.

Drink more water.

The more water you consume, the better.

Water helps control calories and keeps you feeling fuller during the day.

Also, make sure to drink water before and after eating, but not during.

If you drink water during your meal, you are more likely to not finish all of your food, which will cause you to feel hungrier and less satisfied later in the day.

Water also replenishes your organs, causing them to work harder and more efficient.

This should help you metabolize calories quicker.

Lastly, stop eating junk food for lunch at the Union every day.

I know it is really tough to say no to your favorite foods, but the key to losing weight is plenty of exercise and controlling your food intake.

Instead of eating pizza every day, wean yourself off of it slowly.

You shouldn’t deny yourself your favorite foods like pierogies, French fries, cheeseburgers, and all other fatty, calorie-filled foods.

As you’re weaning out the junk, make sure you’re adding in healthy items — lots of fruits, veggies, and give green tea a try.

Next, you have to put the effort into making a food schedule, or keeping a food diary.

Something as simple as writing down what you have eaten for the day will help you change your bad habits.

Having a food schedule for the week will better organize your day and keep you from taking in too many unwanted or unneeded calories.

All in all, the struggle of losing weight in college is real, but it will only be harder in real life and the older you get.

All I know is that we have a fantastic gym and plenty of campus to get exercise on.

I hope every student takes advantage of the gym facilities and the warm weather to get in better shape for summer break.

Also, food is supposed to be enjoyable.

Do not go so far as to deny yourself flavorful and delicious foods—just make sure they are  healthier choices.

Only you can make your body better, so take control of your life and your diet.

Good luck and be easy on the tummy.

Email Regan at:

rhoerl@live.esu.edu