We have all been there- you are in the middle of a completely silent class and your stomach growls. Or how about that person who is eating something crunchy in the middle of class? Focus = gone. Sometimes our classes keep us busy through breakfast, lunch, and even dinner. A collegiate has to eat! Instead of settling for a sugar-filled vending machine snack, try these simple snacks that will keep you full longer and not annoy your classmates:
1.Granola Bars: these can be a great way to satisfy your hunger throughout class. When choosing granola bars, avoid crunchy ones at all costs. There are many options, with a good majority under 100 calories! Not starving in class AND aiding your New Year’s resolution? We’ll take it. (P.S.- To avoid noisy wrappers, unwrap the granola bar before class and put it in a plastic bag).
2.Trail Mix: if you just thought of peanuts, chocolate, and raisins- think again. There are countless ways to overhaul the typical trail mix for a healthier, hunger-fighting alternative. Here are some options for your updated mix:
- Nuts: pistachios, almonds, cashews, walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts.
- Dried Fruit: cranberries, apples, mangos, strawberries, pineapples, or bananas.
- Seeds: Pumpkin or sunflower.
- Sweets: yogurt-covered raisins, dark chocolate, or chocolate-covered nuts.
3.Greek Yogurt: this portable snack is quiet and super healthy! With so many varieties (many under 100 calories) to choose from you can change it up as often as you like. Note: because yogurt needs to be refrigerated it would be best to not let it sit in your bag all day. Don’t forget to pack a spoon and napkin!
4. A Fruit Salad: throw together strawberries, blueberries, bananas, cantaloupe, watermelon, peaches, etc. and you have a quick snack that will give you natural energy to tackle the rest of your day. Not a fan of fruit? Sprinkle the fruit with a little sugar for added sweetness.
5.A Smoothie: smoothies are one of the easiest ways to get essential vitamins and your fruit/ vegetable servings for the day. Like trail mix, smoothies have countless combinations for hunger-fighting, detoxing, energy, and more. Check out this simple smoothie recipe to keep you full and give you that mid-afternoon pick-me-up:
-The Strawberry Boost-
1 Cup of Strawberries
½ Cup of Oats
1 Tsp. of Honey
½ Cup of Peanut Butter
1 Cup of Milk (Almond, Silk, Soy- your choice!)
A Handful of Ice Cubes
So there you have it, HERWVU readers. Having a busy schedule is not an excuse for poor eating or starving yourself. Enjoy!