It is no secret that establishing a healthy diet in college is difficult for most of us. For me, it was the late night visits to the very convenient convenience store right next to my building: Oreos, Poptarts, Sourpatch, you name it. That, plus the fact that I didn’t have my own kitchen until Sophomore year, led to a Freshman habit of eating quick, unhealthy meals and snacks. This lasted until I finally made use of my mini fridge and the microwave in the common room. I realized that it was easier, more convenient and much more healthy to stock up on my own quick meals. So, here is a list of snacks that are healthy, quick to prepare, and don’t spoil easily.
1) Carrots & hummus: This one is a staple. Hummus tastes good with just about anything, and carrots are one of the few veggies that don’t go bad quickly!
2) Whole grain crispbread & peanut (or almond) butter: Crispbread is a really great bread alternative because it’s more like a cracker so it keeps much longer. There’s some really good options out there with flax, chia, etc. Adding some sliced apple on top is great too!
3) Oatmeal packets: Just add water and you’ve got yourself a super simple breakfast or late night snack that’s sweet but not too sugary. For an extra health boost, grab a grain based oatmeal, like quinoa!
4) Protein/snack bars: Bars can be great, but beware the imposters. Make sure that the ingredients list is short and made of whole ingredients, also check the sugar content: you don’t want anything with more than a few grams.
5) Nut packs & trail mix: Once again, beware the ones with tons of sugar (m&m, died fruit with added sugar, etc). Dark chocolate can be a nice addition though!
6) Tuna, turkey or tofu: Protein filled snacks are crucial for making sure you’re actually full. Each of these can be eaten plain, but they’re much better with a bit of your favorite sauce, seasoning, or between crackers!
7) Frozen grapes: It’s so nice to have quick access to fruit in your dorm, but lots of the time it goes bad quickly, or can attract fruit flies when left out. But, if you buy a bundle and stick them in the mini-mini freezer in your fridge, you’ll be set!
8) Fruit & veggie pouches: These are perfectly portable portions. Some of my favorites are made my Mama Chia and Nomva!
9) Chocolate almond milk: Any chocolate milk alternative is a great substitute for late night chocolate cravings. You still get the taste, but with added protein!
10) Water: Okay, so technically this isn’t a snack, but it is so crucial to keep a filled reuseable water bottle with you at all times. Choosing water over drinks with sugar keeps you hydrated, helps your skin and keeps you feeling full.
By: Solia Yalley