Health Tip: Avoid Weight Gain at College

It's common for college students to pack on a few pounds while they're away at school.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offers these suggestions to help prevent weight gain while you're at college:

• Never skip meals. Be especially sure to start the day with a healthy breakfast to kick start your metabolism.
• Make healthy food choices, and pay attention to portion sizes.
• Choose high-fiber foods (such as fruits and veggies, beans and whole grains) to help you feel more full for longer periods.
• Include a lean protein in each meal. Good choices include lean turkey, chicken, pork, fish or beef; beans, nut butters and reduced-fat cheese.
• Eat healthier fats from nuts, seeds, avocados and canola or olive oils. Avoid desserts and fried foods.
• Drink water, fat-free or low-fat milk, unsweetened coffee or tea. Avoid sugary drinks, and limit alcohol to one drink per day.