Time in college is extremely limited, which makes it difficult to maintain healthy eating styles. We all have those days where we are in class, which is followed directly by a meeting, then group work, then the gym is calling our name, but throughout all of that, we also need to eat. We grab those snacks from the vending machine or stop at the local café and pick up a coffee and a bagel. Then we fit that one, or if we're lucky two, meals in at the dining hall. Amidst all that, taking time for healthy snacks has become much easier when buying a few extra foods that can be stored in a dorm room or an apartment.
Here are 8 healthy snacks to eat on the go or quickly in your room:
- Rice cakes and peanut butter: Any type of plain rice cake with peanut butter gives you the extra protein needed to get through the day.
- Make your own trail mix: Buy small bags of different types of your favorite nuts (peanuts, pecans, almonds, walnuts, ect.) and mix them in a sandwich bag. If you're feeling like you need some extra sweets, add your own chocolate chips or even M&Ms
- Hummus and vegetables: Cut up celery pieces, cucumber pieces or even buy a small baggie of carrots. Dip these vegetables in either original or any flavor hummus for a healthy and tasty snack.
- Vegetables and ranch: If you have extra room in your refrigerator then buy some ranch and peppers and cut them up. If you’re spending long hours at the library, put them in an airtight container and munch on them as you study.
- Avocado toast: Need some extra bread in your system after a night out with your friends? Try some avocado toast.
- Celery sticks with peanut butter and chocolate (or raisins): This is a protein filled snack and includes some yummy sweets. I also highly suggest eating apples or bananas with peanut butter.
- Cut up some fruits and create your own fruit salad: Strawberries, kiwis, bananas, blueberries, raspberries, grapes, pineapples, or mangos.
- Smoothies: This healthy snack is super easy to make if you have a blender and can keep fruit frozen. Blend all of your favorite fruits and add either orange or cranberry juice. You could also throw in some milk, yogurt, or protein powder.
All these recipes can easily be made if you have access to a grocery or convenience store. That said, if you don't have money and if you are allowed to take food from the dining halls, grab some fruit on the way out. Like I said, I know it can get tough being under a time crunch and keeping up with work, let alone trying to stay healthy while doing so. Stay on top of your meals, prepare snacks, and focus on your health. You will thank yourself in the long run. That said, this does not mean that slipping every once in awhile is unacceptable. If you see that bag of Cheez-its or want a small baggie of goldfish, indulge. Go ahead and eat them! Your body is going to want to indulge in those food items if you don’t let yourself let loose once in awhile. Keep track of what you are eating and enjoy what you are eating.
