70% of Students Gain Weight During College: Study

Freshman 15—as in the weight most college freshmen gain in the first year—is real. It could be a bigger problem than parents or college students realize. A study found that 70% of college students gain weight and body fat by graduation, fueled by late-night snacking, fattening dorm meals, and a lack of exercise.

In the first study to examine weight changes during four years of college published in Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, researchers suggest that weight gain during the pursuit of higher education may go well beyond the first year, and could be a bigger health threat than parents, students, or scientists realized.

Researchers at Auburn University in Alabama followed 131 students over four years of college and found that a whopping 70% of them packed on pounds by graduation—an average of 12, and up to 37 pounds. The overall percentage of students found to be overweight increased from 18% to 31%. The researchers noted gains in body fat composition and waist circumference as well.

The study flies in the face of previous studies, which found that the average student gains merely 2.5 to 3.5 pounds and accused the media of fomenting the "Freshman 15 Myth."

But the researchers in the Auburn study observed that the "growth" they found in the college students consisted primarily of fat mass—meaning natural growth patterns could not account for it. They attributed the weight gain to late-night study habits, often fueled by vending machine snacks; fattening choices in college cafeterias, and a lack of activity.

Here are five ways college students can eat healthily and avoid gaining weight:

1. Keep healthy snacks handy. Dorm room refrigerators should be stocked with healthy, satisfying snacks, such as fruit, string cheese, Greek yogurt, hummus, and baby carrots.
2. Drink water. Too many calories from sugary drinks and alcoholic beverages can lead to weight gain. These drinks can also cause spikes in blood sugar which can increase hunger.
3. Stay active. Exercise plays a key role in staying fit and healthy. Boost your daily activity levels by walking to class, going to the gym, or participating in intramural sports.
4. Eat regular meals. Skipping meals can lead to overeating and weight gain. Eating breakfast can also jumpstart your metabolism and help you concentrate in class and on tests.
5. Get enough sleep. Sleeping less than six hours each night can affect hormone levels that control appetite, cravings, and metabolism. People who do not get enough sleep often crave high-calorie junk food the body can quickly break down for energy.