As a freshman at the University of Massachusetts Boston, navigating the dining options on campus can be overwhelming, especially with the looming threat of the "Freshman Fifteen." This phenomenon refers to the tendency for first-year college students to gain an average of 15 pounds due to poor eating habits, lack of exercise, and increased stress. However, with the right strategies, you can beat the odds and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Here are 13 proven UMass Boston dining strategies to help you avoid the Freshman Fifteen.
Understanding UMass Boston’s Dining Options
UMass Boston offers a variety of dining options, including the Campus Center Food Court, the Dining Hall, and several cafes and snack bars. The Campus Center Food Court features a range of vendors, including Subway, Dunkin’ Donuts, and a salad bar. The Dining Hall, on the other hand, offers a more traditional buffet-style meal plan with a variety of options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. To make informed decisions, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the different options and their menus.
Eating Healthy on a Budget
Eating healthy doesn’t have to break the bank. UMass Boston offers several affordable and healthy dining options, including the salad bar at the Campus Center Food Court and the veggie station at the Dining Hall. You can also take advantage of the university’s meal plan, which allows you to purchase meals at a discounted rate. Additionally, consider shopping at the on-campus market, which offers fresh produce and other healthy snacks at competitive prices.
| Dining Option | Price Range | Healthy Options |
|---|---|---|
| Campus Center Food Court | $8-$12 | Salad bar, Subway, fruit cups |
| Dining Hall | $10-$15 | Veggie station, vegan options, gluten-free choices |
| On-campus market | $5-$10 | Fresh produce, nuts, dried fruit |
Strategies for Healthy Eating
In addition to understanding the dining options and eating on a budget, there are several strategies you can use to promote healthy eating. These include:
- Eating breakfast every day to jumpstart your metabolism and prevent overeating later in the day
- Portion control to avoid consuming excessive calories and sugar
- Choosing whole foods over processed and packaged options
- Drinking plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated
- Avoiding late-night eating and opting for healthy snacks instead
Staying Active on Campus
Regular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and preventing weight gain. UMass Boston offers several fitness classes and recreational activities, including yoga, Pilates, and intramural sports. You can also take advantage of the university’s gym facilities, which include a state-of-the-art fitness center and indoor pool.
Additionally, consider incorporating physical activity into your daily routine, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or walking to class instead of driving. Every bit counts, and making small changes can add up to make a big difference in your overall health and well-being.
What are some healthy snack options on campus?
+Some healthy snack options on campus include fruit cups, nuts, and dried fruit from the on-campus market, as well as energy bars and trail mix from the Campus Center Food Court.
How can I stay hydrated on campus?
+Staying hydrated on campus is easy with the university's water bottle refill stations. You can also purchase bottled water or other beverages from the Campus Center Food Court or on-campus market.
In conclusion, beating the Freshman Fifteen requires a combination of healthy eating habits, regular exercise, and smart lifestyle choices. By understanding UMass Boston’s dining options, eating on a budget, and incorporating healthy strategies into your daily routine, you can maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid the pitfalls of the Freshman Fifteen. Remember to stay active, hydrated, and informed, and you’ll be well on your way to a happy and healthy college experience.
