Staying healthy on campus

Natalie Kelley, Staff Writer

First step, stock your dorm room with healthy snacks. Having healthy snacks on hand at all times can truly make or break your health in college. It’s much too easy to go to the vending machine, order (another) pastry from Starbucks, or munch on chips when you’re hungry if you don’t have the right fuel at your fingertips. Here is a list of some great go-to healthy snacks that are easy to keep in your mini fridge and will still satisfy those 2 a.m. study munchies

First off, bars are always convenient snacks to have on hand. Healthy protein bars are a great snack because it’s easy to always keep one in your backpack. Try choosing bars, such as Larabars, that don’t have added sugar so you can avoid a sugar crash.

Second, dried fruits and trail mix. It’s easy to make your own trail mixes, but pre-made mixes are just as good. The nuts are a great source of healthy fats, while the dried fruit is great for curbing a sweet tooth.

Third, Baby carrots and pretzels with hummus are great if you are in need of something salty and crunchy, this combo is a great alternative to just munching away on a bag of chips.

Fourth, keep plain rice cakes on hand because you can top them with anything to make the perfect snack. Try adding peanut butter, hummus or mashed avocado.

Fifth, yogurt is a great protein filled snack and can be paired with a variety of different toppings. Try adding nuts, granola or fresh fruit.

Last, pre-cut fruits and vegetables. One of the easiest ways to ensure you snack healthy is keeping fruit and vegetables prepped and ready to grab. If you are hungry or just want something to munch on, chances are you aren’t going to reach for vegetables or a piece of fruit if you have to take the time to cut it up. If you don’t want to take the time to prep them yourselves, buy already chopped produce at the store to make it easier.

Snacking can so easily get out of hand when you are staying up way too late, stressed about homework and rushing to and from class or work. Try out some snacks on this list and see how easy snacking can be made healthy without too much effort.