(PCM) The Freshman 15 might not be a myth after all…except for the fact that it only affects freshman.
A new study from Auburn University in Alabama suggests that college weight gain goes well beyond the first year, and it may be a bigger threat than we realized. Researchers followed 131 students over their four years of college and found that 70% of them gained weight by graduation, and while that may not come as a surprise, the amount gained is more than previously estimated. The average weight gain was 12 pounds, reaching all the way up to 37 pounds – much higher than previous study estimations of 2.5 – 3.5 pounds.
What’s more, the overall percentage of students who were found to be overweight increased from 18% to 31%!
According to reports, the “growth” researchers found in the college students consisted primarily of fat mass (natural growth patterns could not account for it). Weight gain was attributed to late night study habits, fattening choices in college cafeterias, and a lack of activity.
Avoid college weight gain and the dreaded Freshman 15 with these tips!
