Tips for College Students to Lose Weight

College life can attribute to weight gain. On average, freshmen college students gain five pounds, according to freshman15.com. Unhealthy eating, late-night snacks, alcohol consumption and lack of exercise can all add extra pounds. Fortunately, once you've gained additional weight, you can get rid of it. Among other things, a determined and conscious mindset will assist you in your weight loss journey.

Look for Exercise Opportunities

• Even if you think you don't have enough time in your schedule to allow for daily exercise, you can get exercise in unexpected ways. Walk or ride your bike whenever possible, instead of driving. If you do drive, park as far away from the door as possible to get exercise. Take the stairs instead of riding the elevator. Take an exercise class for college credit. Wake up 10 to 20 minutes earlier in the morning and take a brisk walk.

Choose Snacks Wisely

• If you want a snack, choose wisely. Reach for healthy snacks such as 1/4 cup of your favorite nuts, fresh fruit, rice cakes, peanut butter and pretzels, raw veggies or low-fat yogurt. Avoid sweetened drinks, ice cream, donuts, pizza, chips, candy bars and other high-calorie, high-fat convenience foods. Drink a glass of water with your snack to help you feel more satisfied.

Watch Portion Sizes

• Select a smaller plate, such as a salad plate, when serving yourself during meals. The smaller the plate, the less you will put on it. Be aware that restaurants and fast food establishments generally serve more than one portion of food in a single meal. For instance, one serving of meat appears equal to the length, width and height of a deck of cards, according to Lynn O'Shaughnessy in "50 Weight Loss Tips for College Students."

Avoid Fast Food Temptation

• Fast food is well-known for being calorie and fat laden. Items such as french fries, onion rings, hamburgers, pizza, milkshakes, soft drinks and fried chicken and fish offer a high calorie content. If you must eat fast food, choose wisely. Look for salads, but avoid dressing with high fat content. Order a grilled item, but avoid the mayonnaise. Opt for chicken over beef to avoid extra fat.

Avoid Alcohol

• Drinking alcoholic beverages can really add up. Five 12-ounce beers can equal 800 calories, while five shots of liquor can equal a whopping 1,000 calories. If you down five 8-ounce margaritas, you will have consumed approximately 2,500 calories, according to O'Shaughnessy. Avoid parties where beer kegs and drinking games are present. Both offer ways to drink multiple drinks or shots that exceed your daily calorie intake.