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Related Concept Videos

Signs of Puberty01:27

Signs of Puberty

Puberty is a critical phase, typically beginning between the ages of 8 and 13 in girls and 9 and 14 in boys, though timing can vary based on genetics, environmental factors, and overall health. This period is characterized by the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the attainment of reproductive potential. Endocrine changes underpin puberty, with hormonal surges of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) instigated by Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH)...
Obesity01:24

Obesity

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a numerical value derived from a person's weight and height, used to categorize individuals into weight ranges. It is calculated using the formula: weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. Obesity is a health condition characterized by excessive accumulation of adipose tissue that poses health risks, often diagnosed with a BMI ≥ 30. This excess fat storage occurs when surplus dietary calories are converted into triglycerides and stored in adipocytes...
Anorexia Nervosa01:28

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is a complex and severe eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of weight gain, an unrelenting pursuit of thinness, and a distorted body image. It often leads to dangerously low body weight relative to an individual's age and height. This disorder is marked by significant physical and psychological consequences, making it one of the most life-threatening psychiatric illnesses.
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
Regression Toward the Mean01:52

Regression Toward the Mean

Regression toward the mean (“RTM”) is a phenomenon in which extremely high or low values—for example, and individual’s blood pressure at a particular moment—appear closer to a group’s average upon remeasuring. Although this statistical peculiarity is the result of random error and chance, it has been problematic across various medical, scientific, financial and psychological applications. In particular, RTM, if not taken into account, can interfere when researchers try to extrapolate results...
Apparent Weight01:09

Apparent Weight

True weight is the measure of the gravitational force acting on an object. However, if the object accelerates, its measured weight is different from its true weight. Similar observations can be made when the object is submerged in water. An object's weight in water is its apparent weight, which is equal to the difference between its true weight and the buoyant forces.
Consider a person standing on a bathroom scale inside an elevator. If the scale is accurate at rest, its reading equals the...
Hypodermis01:02

Hypodermis

The hypodermis (the subcutaneous layer or superficial fascia) is present directly below the dermis. It connects the skin to the underlying fascia (fibrous tissue) of the bones and muscles. It is not strictly a part of the skin, although the border between the hypodermis and dermis can be difficult to distinguish. The hypodermis consists of well-vascularized, loose, areolar connective tissue and adipose tissue, which functions as a mode of fat storage and provides insulation and cushioning for...

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Updated: Jul 6, 2026

Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
09:36

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Published on: February 2, 2017

The Freshman 15: is it real?

Nicole L Mihalopoulos1, Peggy Auinger, Jonathan D Klein

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA. nicole.mihalopoulos@hsc.utah.edu

Journal of American College Health : J of ACH
|April 11, 2008
PubMed
Summary

College freshmen gain an average of 2.7 lbs, challenging the myth of significant freshman weight gain. This study quantifies actual weight changes in first-year students.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Nutrition Science
  • Student Wellness

Background:

  • The common belief suggests college students gain 15 lbs during their freshman year.
  • Empirical evidence supporting this widespread notion is notably limited.
  • Understanding freshman weight changes is crucial for student health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate and quantify the actual weight changes experienced by college freshmen.
  • To provide evidence-based data on the phenomenon of freshman weight gain.
  • To compare freshman weight gain to general population data.

Main Methods:

  • A study was conducted on unmarried, on-campus freshmen at a private northeastern US university.
  • An online survey was utilized to gather data on social behaviors and individual weight.

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Breakfast Habits among Schoolchildren in the City of Uruguaiana, Brazil
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Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
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Palatable Western-style Cafeteria Diet as a Reliable Method for Modeling Diet-induced Obesity in Rodents
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Palatable Western-style Cafeteria Diet as a Reliable Method for Modeling Diet-induced Obesity in Rodents

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Breakfast Habits among Schoolchildren in the City of Uruguaiana, Brazil
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  • Data collection focused on the freshman year experience.

    • Main Results:

    • An average weight gain of 2.7 lbs was observed among freshmen.
    • Approximately 50% of students experienced weight gain, while 15% lost weight.
    • Men exhibited a greater average weight gain compared to women.

    Conclusions:

    • Freshman weight gain was found to be 5.5 times higher than that observed in the general population.
    • The study provides a more accurate measure of freshman weight changes, refuting exaggerated claims.
    • Findings can inform targeted health and wellness programs for college students.