This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at MSU chapter.
We’ve all uttered the dreadful phrase, “Freshman Fifteen” but no one ever thinks it will happen to them. Well, it can and there’s a good chance it will if you’re not careful. In college it is easy to develop bad eating habits when you are adjusting to a new lifestyle. On those days when you over-sleep and wake up 10 minutes before your first class or you’re just lacking the motivation to walk to the caf, it’s tempting to grab that emergency candy bar you have stored in your desk or buy a bag of Cheetos from the vending machine. These easy and affordable snacks are great to have on hand when you’re in a hurry or just need something small to hold you over until dinner.
- Granola: The whole grains in granola are a great source of fiber and can keep your body feeling fuller longer. Mix it in with your favorite yogurt, swap if for your usual sugary breakfast cereal or just scoop a handful to satisfy your sugar cravings!
- Yogurt: This super food is a good source of calcium, potassium and protein. It’s great when you’re in a hurry but try and stay away from the yogurts with all the extra sugar calories and opt for the healthier non-fat or Greek yogurt.
- Nuts: Nuts are all around a great choice to keep in your room or stash in your backpack for a snack on the go. The small packets of almonds, cashews, peanuts, or pistachios are awesome! Adding nuts to your diet can even promote weight loss!
- Crackers: These are perfect when you just need to munch on something crunchy. Look for crackers that are whole-wheat, high in fiber and not too high in sodium to pair with hummus, cheese, or peanut butter for a yummy snack.
- Apples: Apples are the king of all healthy snacks. They do so many good things for you and plus they are easy to eat anywhere if you’re on the go or lounging in your room. Maybe avoid eating them in the library unless you wish to be that obnoxious cruncher!
- Bananas: Bananas are packed with potassium and can boost your energy and your mood as well as prevent bloating when you’re trying to squeeze into your skinny jeans. Try having a banana before your next big test or before studying, bananas wake up your brain and keep you more alert.
- Peanut butter: The amount of fiber and protein in peanut butter will make you feel fuller longer and prevent you from binging right after breakfast. Peanut butter is packed with nutrition and the good fat that’s great for your heart. Lather some on an apple or banana, or indulge yourself with a spoonful of glorious peanut-y goodness!
- Popcorn: No, not the movie theater microwave popcorn that is dripping in butter. The low-fat or air popped popcorn is low in calories and if you are prudent with your toppings, can be a great salty snack satisfier.
- Hummus: Filled with wholesome and healthy ingredients, hummus is a perfect replacement lunch when the caf is serving greasy hamburgers and fries. Use it as dip for your favorite vegetables, whole-wheat pita chips or spread some on your sandwich.
- Vegetables: Ah, a necessity for a healthy lifestyle. You gotta eat your veggies so why not stock up your mini fridge with your favorites and pair them with some yummy hummus or your favorite topping whatever it may be.