FIRST KITCHEN BLOGS

For some of you off to college for the first time, it is also a time of freedom from mom's rules- but how's it going?  

Are you finding you are not eating regular meals or maybe not making the healthiest choices for meals and or snacks?   Or are maybe drinking too many empty calories and not getting enough sleep?  All of this could add up to not feeling the healthiest or to some of the dreaded weight gain.  But by taking stock now it doesn’t have to.

For those of you that have your own kitchen, a little planning and making healthy lunches “to go” may be one of the easiest ways to make some changes.  (Oh and could save some money too!)

Tired of the same old sandwiches?  Try the turkey and cheese with lettuce on a wrap or pita instead. That can be tasty and won’t dry out. 

With a chill in the air, a thermos filled with soup and a side of whole grain crackers could be a nice change.

It is apple season, so a crisp, sweet apple for dessert or snack – maybe with a wedge of cheese can break the monotony of the same old. 

Did you sign up for the aerobic dance for your phys. ed. elective?  Remember moving your body is a way to maintain weight, feel good and/or reduce stress-something-you have plenty of when trying to keep up the hectic schedule.

Good luck with those midterms!

After a summer of outdoor activities, eating healthy fruits and vegetables of the season, not to mention free meals with the ‘rents- things are about to change.  

Does this sound familiar?

·      Late night studying  -and snacking

·      Late night studying- and sitting, sitting

·      Partying -and snacking and consuming caloric beverages

·      Grabbing quick and cheap meals in (or out) of the cafeteria

This can add on the pounds.  No wonder the term the freshman 15 has caught on.   But with a little planning, this does not have to happen.

Sure we can give you a list of what to avoid, but we’d rather talk about what you can do.

While studying and snacking, maybe try a yogurt and pretzels or an apple and string cheese as an alternative to the many trips for chips or candy bars from the vending machine. How about a party where you make our own pizza? A simple prepared crust with lots of healthy ingredients – It is not only good for you, but it takes the focus off of only eating and/or drinking. 

The cafeteria is a handy place eat, but know their sneaky philosophy – they put the dessert out first and when you are hungry they are tempting.  Dessert is ok, but let’s not make it the main item on your tray. 

These are just a couple of hints, but as recent graduates we know a few more trick that we can share with you on our First Kitchen DVD

Good luck!