5 Tips for Gals Trying to Shape Up

SO, as your average college girl, I dreaded the freshman 15 and in my later years of college still dread weight gain that comes from the fast meal, eating out, date night world I exist in. And, though I am still working on getting to my goal, I thought I'd offer up a few tips that have kept me and my petite little body healthy.

1. Water Water Everywhere! Drink it, drink it now! Always have a water bottle with you, even if it is just a small one. If you drink water in between meals, you feel fuller. If your tummy starts to growl, reach for your water battle instead of a snack. If you can down that water bottle and still feel hungry, then you can eat. One of my big problems is bored eating. When you're bored, you eat to spice up or sweeten your life. But often it is not your stomach asking for it, just your boredom. So fight back with water! If you can't stand it's blandness - flavor it! Toss in some oranges or lemons. Mint is a great addition because it curves appetite. For the really adventurous - try mango and ginger for a tangy taste that will boost your metabolism!
2. It's Okay to Snack! Really, no one can get through the day on just three meals. Seriously, you can eat snacks and it can actually help your metabolism. And you won't be watching the clock and getting ready to scarf down your next meal. For college gals like me - make your own trail mix with protein packed nuts and yogurt covered raisins! Stick an apple in you backpack. If you choose healthy options even ladies on a diet can snack.
3. Count Your Calories I know, I know, "it's only for people on a strict diet." Well, it doesn't have to be! Even if you just try it for a day or two, just to see what you all intake. It can shock you! I have an app on my phone I use everyday and it is called ShapeUp and I love it! It has a great database for all kinds of food and restaurants. It even has a feature where you can create your own food off of a recipe! Check out it's FB page https://www.facebook.com/#!/ShapeUpClub?fref=ts. I previously used Noom, which is another good calorie counter, with color coded food options and weight loss tips https://www.facebook.com/#!/noom?fref=ts.
4. Work That Body! For a long time I was a lazy pants who did not want to face facts, but the truth hurts - there is no weight loss without exercise. Plus, exercise is just part of a healthy lifestyle! For girls on a big campus like me - walking that 20 minutes to class is a start, but not enough! Get active! Last year I was on a very tight schedule and couldn't get to the gym. So, I started looking up exercise videos on YouTube! Here's one with all kinds of quick workouts for girls on the go http://www.youtube.com/user/popsugartvfit. And here's one that has great videos for target muscle groups http://www.youtube.com/user/FitnessBlender. And for shy girls like me who are a bit timid to sign up for a class, there are even hip hop and zumba classes on there! They are a lot of fun and you barely notice all the calories you are burning. Also, find little ways to get active during your busy life. At work, I get up and move around every 10 minutes, even if it is just a little pace around the room. In the car, do a little dance (just keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel). In class, I fidget. Seriously, no one is paying attention to you. So bounce your leg, pat your hands. One move I picked up was shrugging your shoulders as high as you can and making a circular motion first forward, then back 10 times. It is quick and easy and relaxes tight shoulders from sitting in a desk chair all day.
5. Enjoy Your Favorite Foods - Just Control Your Portions I certainly do not have the will power to cut my favorite, salty, sugary, deliciously fattening food from my life. But I compromised and controlled myself. I used to be addicted to Cheddar and Sour Cream Chips,1 bag would last me 2 nights. And I had to call it quites. I stop buying the big bags and instead when I had an irresistible craving, I bought a small bag that could not have me coming back for more. For a grab and go option, I go for the 100 calorie bags. For sweet, sweet sweets, I found miniature options. Here is a recipe for 1 cookie: http://www.food.com/recipe/chocolate-chip-cookie-for-one-356866?layout=desktop. It is soooo satisfying and you don't have a whole batch tempting you. And here is a favorite 3 2 1 Microwave cake http://www.duncanhines.com/recipes/cakes/patti40/3-2-1-microwave-cake I use this anytime I am craving cake and it is so easy! You can even take it on the go! Also, look for skinny options. In the Pinterest age, there is always a skinny recipe for something. A quick fix is substitute geek yogurt, applesauce, or avocado for butter. It will cut your fat intake in half!