I don’t know about you all but for me, it’s time to start studying and writing my papers so I know I need to start packing snacks to bring with me to go study. That also means I am probably going to be lazy and go buy something cheap instead. Let’s be real, we’re all on a budget aren’t we? But what else could be cheaper than junk food? (Anyone else on the same page as me?). It is so easy to buy junk food because it is sadly more affordable than water, but there are so many affordable and healthier options that you could be trying instead! Here are four easy to find and healthy alternatives to junk food snacks!
1. Carrots
I love eating crunchy foods so instead of eating chips, keep these suggestions in mind! Carrots are great for your eyes and they’re rich in vitamin A! They are also helpful for reducing the risk of cancer and rich in beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that is helpful for reducing cholesterol. Carrots are fairly cheap and are easy to add into meals, too. You can get baby carrots at almost any grocery store for less than two dollars for a whole bag. They are also great to add as a side for your dinner! You can also get these for free at the Associated Students Food Bank on campus (link at the bottom if you want more information about the A.S. Food Bank’s services).
2. Celery
Celery (it has that satisfying crunch sound too!) is another great alternative. Celery is relatively easy to prepare and a great go to food if you don’t feel like cooking a whole meal or making a snack. Celery has a lot of water content and is also a great low calorie snack if you’re counting calories. Eating celery and some peanut butter is probably healthier than eating a bag of hot cheetos and they have lots of health benefits as well! Celery is great for digestion and the cardiovascular system; it is loaded with vitamin K, folate, vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and has dietary fibers too!
3. Almonds
Something else that could be good to crunch on are nuts! One of my favourites are almonds because you don’t really need to mix them with anything.You can buy these in small packs or giant bags at Costco for an affordable price. Almonds are a great source of vitamin E, magnesium, and copper and a great way to get protein in your body. They are also antioxidants and contribute to helping reduce oxidative stress, and cardiovascular disease. Almonds contain good amounts of healthy unsaturated fatty acids that are good for your body as well. Almonds are a little pricier than the other two suggestions but each food has its own benefits.
4. Yogurt and Granola
Yogurt is an awesome alternative that can be found at any market and on campus too (for those of you in a rush). Many yogurts have good bacteria to help your digestive system; it can regulate the digestive system in the sense that it can help with lessening the frequency of gas, constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. There is also research that shows that yogurt can boost the immune system and could even increase the absorption of vitamins and other minerals that are vital for your body. Granola is always good to throw in yogurt because it adds a different texture and a crunch to each bite!
Treating your body with healthier food will definitely help you in terms of studying since finals are coming so soon! Good luck!
For those of you wanting to learn more about the Associated Students Food Bank and their services, please follow this link to their website: https://foodbank.as.ucsb.edu.
The Associated Students Food Bank is located upstairs in the University Center near the restrooms.