When kids go off to college they start making many of their own decisions, including what and when to eat.  Now is a good time to talk to your college-bound student about making smart food choices to keep them healthy and prevent an unwanted weight gain.

Dorm Room Munchies
Instead of those late night pizzas and microwave meals, have some easy breakfast and snack items on hand for the mini-fridge.
-Fresh, dried or packaged fruit
-Whole wheat crackers
-Cereal
-Granola bars
-Yogurt

Think the Drink
-Diet soda
-Fat free milk
-Low-cal flavored waters
-100% juice
-Only occasional high calorie coffee drinks

Build a Better Plate
The college cafeteria can be filled with high calorie foods. Stick to these simple plate rules.
-Fill 1/2 your plate with non-starchy vegetables
-Fill 1/4 your plate with whole grains
-Fill 1/3 your plate with lean protein
-Limit fats, especially high fat dressing on the salad bar and fried foods.

With a little education and planning, your college student will be on their way to a year of healthier living!