You've helped pack the clothes, boxed the stereo and purchased a year's worth of school supplies. Your college student knows her classes, her dorm room and roommate. What did you both forget: The nutrition strategies that will prevent your child from gaining the notorious ''freshman 15.''

Even if you don't have college students at home, you should keep reading. Why? Because these tips will help those of you who have a hard time eating healthfully around friends and family or when you're in new settings (think: vacation).

Eating Well in College 101

Use these tips from nutrition professionals who work in universities or who have college-age children themselves:

• Along with all the other changes that college brings, changes in eating habits are sure to happen. Give yourself time to adjust to new surroundings and new foods.

• If your campus has more than one dining hall, try them all! College students often complain of boredom with their meals -- you'd be bored with any restaurant if you ate there three times a day, seven days a week and nine months out of the year!

• Remember to eat three meals every day. It may seem like you can function on caffeine alone, but your brain and body will fail you when you need them most if you routinely skip meals.

• Carry a water bottle with you everywhere you go. That way you can stop spending money on soda and other sweetened beverages, avoid unwanted calories and ensure that you're well hydrated. A triple bonus!