I’m beginning to think that my mother isn’t that crazy after all.

Granted she’s had some eccentric ideas, but her suggestion this summer that I bring a scale to college was wiser than I had ever imagined. After hearing this advice I reacted as a normal, presumptuous teenager would — I laughed. I then informed her that a scale would be an unnecessary purchase and that my weight was not going to fluctuate an inch. I bet she’s laughing now!

I would say I was a fairly healthy person during high school and while I lived at home. However, living on my own is an entirely different story. Besides the limit of my meal plan, there is absolutely no control as to how much or what food I consume. Attempting to eat healthy at the dining hall is excruciatingly hard. I always try to lighten my fare by adding a salad or a bowl of fruit, but really, who can escape that ice cream machine with its array of toppings? When you have free reign to eat whatever you want, it’s just a little bit difficult to reach for the foods you know you should eat. I have succeeded in consuming a few completely fat free, low-carb meals. However, their nutritional benefits are probably reduced when I later supplement them with late-night snacks such as popcorn and chocolate chip cookies.

Late nights undermine all attempts to eat in a healthy manner whatsoever. Whether cramming for a test or catching up on Grey’s Anatomy episodes online it’s a struggle not to over indulge. I try to remember the saying “a moment on your lips, forever on your hips,” but it’s a daily battle between my stock of junk food and my conscience. My inner voice becomes irrelevant when my suitemates apply situational peer pressure in the form of takeout, brownies or visits to Sushi Blues on half-priced nights.

Going out especially warrants extra dietary caution. Many social outings involve cuisine that is not available here on campus so it seems absurd not to take advantage of the opportunity at hand. It’s definitely hard to resist limited availability. This reasoning can lead you down the wrong path, lined with Cookout trays.

Healthy lifestyles also include regular exercise. I thought walking to my classes and the occasional workout would be enough to maintain my shape. I didn’t expect to be so busy that making the trip to Carmichael becomes an afterthought instead of a daily goal. It’s ironic that I live 200 yards from the workout facility and I’ve been fewer times than my gym at home that is five miles from my house. I used to exercise semi-regularly, but I have realized that it is a mandatory practice I need to incorporate if I continue my present habits.

While I’m glad to say that I have not yet gained the “freshmen fifteen” it’s a scary feeling to know that you’re in a downward spiral. If you feel you are in the same position, take control of your habits and be proactive while you can.

Excuse me, my chicken tender basket awaits.

Are you living a healthy life style? Send us your habits by e-mailing to [email protected].