Dorm Room Diet
College students get an A+ in health and wellness.
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BACKGROUND
Each August new college freshman arrive on campuses across the country. They're on their own for the very first time and expectations are high for what lies ahead. It doesn't take long for students to start noticing expanding waist lines and the realization that The Freshman 15 is not a myth. The Dorm Room Diet, by Daphne Oz, suggests a simple lifestyle plan that can help guide college students toward a healthier way of eating, even when it's not the most popular thing to do.
Daphe is the daughter of renowned cardiac surgeon and favored Oprah guest Dr. Mehmet Oz. Following in her father's footsteps, Daphne has created a dieting book that incorporates her experiences of living on her own in the fast-paced world of college.
FOOD & RECIPE
The eating habits of a college student would scare most moms into never letting their kids leave the nest. But it's ultimately up to you how well you're going to take care of yourself. Finding your own way of eating is one of the biggest challenges you face living on your own for the first time. The Dorm Room Diet shows that you can eat and still enjoy eating and where to find the healthiest choices on campus.
There aren't really any groups of foods that are off limits. You're encouraged to eat less processed foods and more whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy, nuts, and good fats found in olive oil. There's even room for coffee and sweets.
The rules that The Dorm Room Diet has regarding food are fairly simple:
1. Always eat breakfast
2. Eat at least ever three hours (small snacks between main meals)
3. Stop eating two hours before bed
4. Go to study sessions prepared for the munchies with healthy snacks like baby carrots, a handful of chocolate chips, almonds or apples
5. Skip foods that can be addictive
6. When you crave something really bad, count to your age and then decide if you really need it
EXERCISE
You're definitely encouraged to maintain a regular exercise routine. Most colleges and universities have gyms on campus and often the membership fee is included in your tuition. Most importantly, you should do what you enjoy. And while those long walks between classes are certainly beneficial, your body needs more dedicated exercise.
The Dorm Room Diet suggests you spend about three days a week in the gym and mix-up cardio, strength training and yoga or Pilates. Many of these are offered as courses, so you can burn calories and earn credits at the same time.
EXPENSE
The Dorm Room Diet book and the planner.
PRO
- No counting
- Healthy variety of food
- Suited to a college lifestyle
- Promotes exercise
CON
- Not a lot of forgiveness for munchies
- Usually at mercy of what is available in the dorm cafeteria
- College budget doesn't allow for some of the food recommendations
CONCLUSION
Daphne presents her practical tips for eating and living healthy while away at college based on her own experiences. She says freshman are faced with so many changes and choices, that diet is often forgotten. Avoid that pesky freshman 15 throughout your first year of college as you learn the important skills you can carry on after you've earned your degree. The book is humorous, down-to-earth and educational. It's the perfect parting gift for your college student.
common misspellings:
Dorm Diet, Dorm Room Deit, Drom Room Diet
Nancy U: dorm room diet has solid tips for all, not just college students
MsP: bought dorm room diet 4 my daughter her fresh year. she said it helped her stay on track
