The Atkins diet has received a lot of flack in the past couple of years, and a new study proves that the negative publicity was unnecessary.

Dr. Atkins, currently doing a spirit jig, was correct in suggesting that a low-carb diet would increase weight loss and improve health. The two-year study monitored  322 participants divided up into three groups (low-carb, low-fat, and Mediterranean diet). The participants ate food from the same cafeteria everyday and exercised for the same amount of time. At the end of the study, participants on a low-carb regimen lost more weight and had the best cholesterol.

College students do not have the luxury of having healthy foods prepared in a controlled environment. Also, the college lifestyle (*cough* binge drinking) does not quite read high on the health meter either.

Here are a couple of healthy suggestions that won't cramp your style and may help you shed a couple of spare pounds.

1. Skip the Pizza

This advice is on just about every "freshman 15 avoidance list," and no one heeds the warning. Walking away from the greasy slice will save the pitter, patter of your little heart with a nice decrease in your waistline, trust me.

2. Breaded or Fried = Death

Okay, not immediate death, just enough death to make you sad when you check yourself out in the mirror. It feels really good to eat fried food at first, then you feel full and disgusting afterward. Having a light meal will make you feel 300 times better in the end.

3. Limit Alcohol Consumption

There is nothing better than stuffing your face with McDonald's, Burger King, or whatever leftover greasy substitute there is strewn about the room. Plus, college parties always have the worst food, chips, dip, cheese, and nary a fruit in sight. Cut the alcohol, it only adds calories with no nutritional value.

4. Bread, Muffins, and Pasta... Oh, My

Watch the amount of carbs you consume. A muffin before class may seem good, but it won't leave you satisfied and the calorie count is through the roof. Do some research on good and bad carbs, then start setting up simple guidelines.

5. Utilize Your Meal Plan For Good

Lots of schools have fast food vendors, vending machines and sweet treats at every corner, but they also have fruits and veggies available. Take a gander at the selection and get a good dose of leafy greens and tender fruits.