Once you return to college after Thanksgiving break, the final countdown is on to reach the end of the semester. With these next few weeks bound to bring you a ton of stress and sleep deprivation, finding time to eat healthy amidst your hectic schedule becomes an impossible task. However, before you find yourself living off of coffee, soda and the vending machine, go shopping before you return to school and load up on these healthy snacks to keep your hunger satisfied.
Granola: This is a great snack that comes in tons of varieties that contain whole rolled oats, flaxseed and nuts, making for the perfect breakfast parfait. For an easy parfait, layer Greek yogurt, granola and banana slices.
Trail Mix: This snack is super easy to make and tailor to your personal preference. Mix together unsalted peanuts, cashews, walnuts, almonds, seeds and raisins. To spice things up, try adding wasabi peas, sesame sticks, coconut or dark chocolate chunks. Store this mixture in an airtight container, and measure out an individual serving size in a plastic bag to take on the go.
Peanut Butter: This is a great staple to keep on hand. Peanut butter is full of protein and healthy fats, and it is a great way to satisfy your hunger. Spread on a couple slices of whole wheat bread for a sandwich or use it as a dip for fresh apple slices. For a sweet frozen treat, spread peanut butter on a banana, roll in chocolate chips and freeze.
Hummus: This is a great dip for fresh vegetables, including carrot sticks, peppers and cucumbers or spread it on pieces of whole wheat pita bread. Hummus is full of heart health fats, fiber and protein
Mozzarella String Cheese: This snack is only 70 calories per serving and it is a great source of calcium and protein.
Whole grain English muffins: These are a great stable to keep in your freezer. When you are ready to use one, simply pop it in your toaster and it is ready to eat in only a matter of minutes. For breakfast, top an English muffin with peanut butter and jam. Or for a more savory meal, make a personal pizza with tomato sauce, shredded cheese and toppings of your choice.
Dried Fruit: Fresh fruit is an important food to include in your diet. Unfortunately, students have limited access to fruit and it can spoil faster than you can eat it. Dried fruit is a great alternative to still get the vitamins and antioxidants of fresh fruit, however just be aware of certain brands having added sugar. Great fruits to try include apricots, prunes, raisins and cranberries.
Fresh fruit: For a serving of fresh fruit, stock up on apples, bananas and oranges. These are all very portable fruits to keep in your backpack that do not easily spoil. Plus, they are great sources of vitamins and minerals.