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Freshman 15

Many students have concerns about their weight during college, especially during the freshman year. The term "Freshman 15" suggests that students are likely to gain 15 pounds during their first year of college, but research shows that the typical weight gain during the freshman year is actually closer to 5 pounds .

Moderate weight gain between the ages of 18-23 is quite normal since this is the time that the adult body develops and settles at its natural "set point" weight. Fighting this natural shift in weight by restricting intake and/or dieting can lead to unwanted health consequences (for example: binge eating behaviors, chronic weight cycling, and disordered eating).

Unexplained and/or rapid weight gain throughout college may be a sign of poor health and nutrition decisions.

Reasons for rapid weight gain include:

  • Erratic sleeping and eating patterns
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Decreased activity level compared to high school
  • Pressures of college leading to stress eating
  • Skipping breakfast
  • Greater access to energy dense foods
  • Poor variety or overall diet
Programs and Classes

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These quick and easy tips will help your body to find its natural weight during college, while preventing unnecessary weight gain:


Follow a consistent sleep and eating pattern. Sleep
Eat moderate portions throughout your day
Moderate your alcohol intake. Learn more Alcohol/Drug Prevention Strategies
Stay involved in sports that you enjoyed in high school or try something new. Exercise
Learn to handle stress and emotions without turning to food. Stress and Food
Eat something for breakfast... every day. Eat Breakfast
Incorporate a variety of foods on a daily basis. Incorporate Variety


nutrition homepageBack to the Nutrition Homepage

Crombie, A.P., Ilich, J.Z., Dutton, G.R., Panton, L.B., and Abood, D. A., 2009. The freshman weight gain phenomenon revisited. Nutrition Reviews, 67:2, pgs 83-94.

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