FRESHMAN 15: Myth or Reality?

Is it a myth or a reality?

It is not uncommon for college freshman to gain weight. The amount that is gained varies from person to person and not everyone gains weight.

Why does weight gain happen?

People often blame the weight gain on “the food.” We gain weight and we automatically blame it on “the food.” Adjustment to college causes life to change. Weight gain can occur as a result of maturation, change in eating habits, change in exercise/activity habits, and adjustment in general.

  • Changes in eating habits: You have less control now on eating times, availability of foods and types of food served. There are also unlimited quantities and varieties of foods available. Meal times are social events and the tendency may be to linger over the too many French fries or extra desserts while you’re talking with friends. Late night eating while studying can also create eating more than your body needs and eventual weight gain if done consistently.
  • Changes in exercise habits: Students often times are quite active in high school whether it is being involved in organized sports or extra-curricular activities. With the start of college come choices such as to study or exercise? Or go to “the Rec” or hang with friends? Activity levels may decrease significantly from high school to college.
  • Facing new challenges: There are many new challenges facing you, your first year of college. It can be a highly emotional time (for both male and female college students). You meet new people, make new friends, encounter new academic challenges, deal with balancing new freedoms and making choices you have never had to make before. Sometimes people turn to food to help them cope in these challenging times.

What can you do if you find your gaining some weight?

  • Don’t diet: If you find you’re gaining a little bit of weight avoid going on a crash diet. Diets can lead to a vicious cycle of weight loss and weight regain. You also put yourself at risk for developing disordered eating. Crash dieting slows down your metabolism, increases your risk for binge and over eating and can’t last.
  • If you are having trouble maneuvering the dining halls contact Pam Edwards (402-472-9045) or Karen Miller (402-472-0880)both registered dietitians that can help.
  • Develop a healthy perspective on weight management. This includes a healthy combination of nutrition, exercise, stress management and healthy sleep. Focus on health and wellness, not weight.

Where can you go for more help?

  • If you feel stressed out—Don’t be afraid to ask for help. There is help available through the University Health Center’s Counseling and Psychological Services (402-472-7450). There is help at Campus Recreation with a fitness assessment and or nutrition assessment (402-472-0880). Although weight gain is rather common in the first year of college, feeling out of control, anxious all the time, and overly preoccupied with food and weight are not common. If you are concerned about yourself or someone you care about, please call.

For more information contact Karen Miller, Coordinator for Nutrition Education and Wellness; Campus Recreation ( or 402-472-0880)

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is an equal opportunity educator and employer.