Nutrition facts for freshmen

Katie Serrano
For the Alestle

There may soon be a cure for the "freshman 15," those extra pounds that creep up on students in their first year of college.

The Wellness Center and Student Health Services are developing a nutrition consultation program that will be available to all SIUE students at no cost.

Students will have the opportunity to make an appointment with a trained individual who will assess their eating habits and physical activity level. Then nutrition consultants will recommend diets and exercise routines to help students reach their goals. Those with special nutritional needs, such as vegetarians and diabetics, will especially benefit.

The program comes as a result of many students' desire for more nutrition education.

"The Student Health Service staff and the Wellness Center staff have noticed increased inquiries regarding general nutrition and special needs from our students over the past six months or so," Wellness Coordinator Mary Baya said.

Baya says that this program, combined with the free fitness assessment offered by the Wellness Center, will better serve the needs of SIUE students.

Freshman Susan Baker feels the new program will be a success with students.

"A lot of people are concerned with their physical health," Baker said.

"I know I am. My eating habits aren't the best, and I think if I were put on a diet or exercise regimen with a nutritionist, I would be much more likely to eat healthier and exercise."

Promotion for the nutrition consultation program will begin in March, which is Nutrition Month. The program should officially begin by fall of the next school year.

For more information about the program, call the Wellness Center at 650-2935.