Senior year of college is an experience you’ll never forget. From turning 21 to having real world jobs, you will be going through a whole bunch of new life changes. But a common trend goes unnoticed throughout senior year — the health changes that take place among seniors. When you have just about a hundred things going on in your mind, from exams to your future, your health and body might be the last thing you have time to think about.  

It’s obvious that these bodily changes occur because of what college seniors put themselves through. Frequent drinking and partying, lack of sleep, stress, and an unbalanced diet all contribute to the unhealthiness of senior students. All these extremes apply to every college student, but it affects seniors more, as they all try to get in their last experience of childhood: taking every opportunity to be lazy, drinking and eating whatever they want, before heading into the real world.

Seniors who keep pushing the line will likely find that they lack the stamina and strength they once used to have, especially after a night out drinking. As you become older, you feel more tired and dehydrated, and have a tougher time getting things done the day after you drink.

Just being 21 is a massive change for a college senior. Being legal allows you to drink alcohol wherever and whenever you want. Many college students enjoy drinking because of the thrill of getting drunk, and they do this all the more when they finally turn 21. Due to this, hangovers seem to get worse and more common. 

When we are dealing with stress, which may be increased during senior year, our body doesn’t function as well and we don’t absorb nutrients like we should be. Also, as we become older, it’s important that we remain more conscious about what our bodies consume. It is important to remember that if your diet is not good and balanced, there is more stress on your body.

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So, how do you avoid the Senior 15?

Here are 5 easy tips to help you stay healthy in your senior year.

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1. Have healthy snacks around.

It’s easy to eat healthy if you keep the Cheetos away and stock your dorm room with healthy snacks. You’ll be more likely to reach for these than junk food if you keep them nearby or in your bag.

2. Drink moderately.

Although college students are known for their drinking and partying, you can still have a good time without consuming all the calories that come along with a beer. This way, you’ll avoid the hangovers and other negative effects of alcohol. Drink in moderation, and you can have a good time without it affecting your health.

SEE: How to Survive College Without a Sip of Alcohol

3. Don’t stress eat.

It can be tempting to reach for a bag of chips or some chocolate when you’re stressed out about an exam or a paper. Eating won’t help your stress go away, so avoid filling up on unhealthy snacks. Try taking a break or working out instead.

SEE: Cheap, Nutritious Foods to Keep the Stress Away

4. Keep hydrated.

Drinking enough water can help boost your focus as well as keep you from overeating. Make sure to keep hydrated as you go through your day by keeping a water bottle with you at all times.

5. Limit caffeinated beverages.

Beverages may not fill you up, but they can fatten you up and have a negative effect on your health. You don’t have to give up soda and coffee, but you should limit sugary and caffeinated drinks to keep yourself in the best shape possible.

Enjoy your senior year of college, but be sure to take care of your health as well!