The Freshman Fifteen -- It's a phrase known by many. In the first year of college, and the subsequent years thereafter, your body will likely be subjected to a few more fast food endeavors than it's ever experienced, and you may partake in a pint or two that put you over the generally accepted caloric intake for your gender and size. Added calories seem to be part of campus living, and it's important to keep your diet in check, even if you're healthy, young, and fit when you enter your freshman year.

Bear in mind, however, that unhealthy calorie-watching can be just as detrimental as over-consumption. In order to keep your body and mind functioning at optimal levels, you have to find a balance between too much and too little.

Here are a few ways you can keep the calorie demons at bay and make the Freshman Fifteen a figment of your imagination:

Put Skinny on the Menu. If lattes and Frappuccinos are your go-to study accessories, opt for the skinny versions. Skinny drinks replace whole milk with skim milk, which can save you almost half the calories. Leave off the whip cream and additional chocolate or caramel topping, and you've downed your calories by 2/3 to 3/4 without depriving yourself of the treat you love so much!

Employ an App. There's always room on your phone for one more app, and if you're trying to adhere to healthy calories, allot that space to a health app that helps you track your calories and understand where you stand in terms of fitness. An app will allow you to adjust your daily diet, accounting for splurges and missed meals so your body stays healthfully on track.

Embrace Your Dining Card. On most campuses, meals are included as part of the required payment, so you might as well take advantage of your meal plan. Dining halls are an excellent alternative to food you'd have to pay for anyway; most of them offer all-you-can-eat options, and the variety of edibles typically includes a vast array of fruits, vegetables, proteins, healthy-made grains, and other food groups that substantiate a healthy pyramid.

Have you found healthy ways to avoid the Freshman Fifteen? Our Facebook page is the perfect place to share your healthy calorie-counting tips and tricks!