It seems that every month a new fad diet or miracle weight loss pill hits the market playing upon people's insecurities.
As summer draws near and the urge to show more and wear less becomes stronger, it's the perfect time to take advantage of free programs offered by Student Health Services and Campus recreation. These individualized programs take the guesswork out of dieting and keeping fit.
"I didn't know that there were programs like this on campus but now I'll probably check them out," said Kelli Kirk, business graduate student.
Mary Catherine Schallert, nutrition educator and clinical nutrition graduate student, works to help students tailor a realistic diet to achieve their weight loss or weight gain goals.
"We're really flexible with what we can do for the students," she said.
A typical nutrition consultation includes taking your height and weight, calculating a healthy caloric intake, and determining your body mass index. Each consultation is casual and individualized to each person's needs and goals.
"We have all the resources here for the taking," she said. "You've already paid for the services through campus activity fees. Why not use them?"
Brochures on subjects ranging from how to eat with no time and no money to proper serving sizes are available for students. Schallert also does group presentations and information sessions. Nutrition services are available by appointment only.
Another useful and no-cost service available through Health Services is physical fitness counseling. Corey Lohnes, health educator and exercise science graduate student, helps students set fitness goals through exercise based on typical habits and commitment level.
"I can put together a ideal program but it takes commitment for the individual," he said. "This is not an over night miracle."
Lohnes works closely with Schallert when designing fitness plans to ensure all nutritional needs are also being met.
"Eating right while exercising is a big part of achieving your weight goals," he said.
Both services are available by appointment only. Call 678-2664 for times and availability.
