Ah, the joyous times of the first papers and midterms: multiple days dedicated to last-minute cramming and tests. But, as this stress builds up, it’s too easy to forget the incredible healthy eating habits you formed at the beginning of the semester. Late night cookies, pizza, Cookout runs? We can all relate.
Here are a few healthy snack alternatives for those late nights to help you stay focused and alert, all while supplying your body with feel-good food, as well as a few treats that you should probably stay away from!
(1)Popcorn –
Air popped popcorn is light and not filled with the oil & butter from other microwaved popcorn! Try adding a bit of salt and olive oil to yours to make it feel like a treat, all while getting some natural healthy fats in your diet!
(2)Wheat Thins & Hummus –
Chips and Dip are tasty, but they don’t make you feel too great afterwards. Try having hummus and whole wheat crackers (my favorite are Wheat Thins!) to get a good balance of carbs & protein and kick your chip craving to the curb!
(3)Veggies & Cream Cheese –
While studying, chips & queso make you feel bloated and sluggish – there’s no way you can get good studying in! Instead, try chopped up veggies (carrots, celery, bell peppers, cucumbers) dipped in fat free cream cheese! I promise it’s incredible.
(4)Oatmeal –
Who says oatmeal is only for breakfast?! It’s actually the perfect late night snack to provide sustained energy with the slow releasing carbs! Add some protein powder or peanut butter in it for an extra protein pack!
(5)Homemade Trail Mix –
Most trail mixes have added sugars that will cause your blood sugar to spike, eventually making you crash early from exhaustion. Go ahead and make your own mix filled with ALL of your favorites! Add some salty crunchy snacks, roasted nuts, unsweetened dried fruit, and maybe even a few yogurt drops or dark chocolate chunks (to substitute for the delicious M&M’s!)
(6)Bananas & Peanut Butter –
This is such a staple for most college students. If you haven’t tried it yet, go make it. Right now. If you’re not the biggest fan of bananas or peanut butter, try sliced apples with some other nut butter! Both will provide the same healthy carbs and protein!
(7)Rice Cakes, Avocado, Sriracha –
Some spicy Hot Cheetos or Doritos are incredibly tempting at 2AM. But, they always leave you feeling hungry and unsatisfied. Try some brown rice cakes topped with sliced avocado and sriracha drizzled on top! You’ll feel full and spiced up for more studying!
(8)Whole Wheat Pretzels & Greek Yogurt –
Yogurt covered pretzels are such a weakness. It’s too easy to finish a whole bag. Instead, make your own! Get a bag of whole wheat pretzels and a container of Greek yogurt & dip away! Be careful, though, because some yogurts can be packed with added unnecessary sugars! Be sure to check before you dig in!