This semester I have back-to-back nutrition classes during lunchtime, so learning about food makes for quite the voracious appetite. I’m sure everyone can relate to that awkward moment when your stomach growls at an unnecessary volume, especially when the classroom is conveniently silent. It’s the worst, right? Well not anymore! If you don’t have time to wait in line for lunch, here are some healthy snacks that are guaranteed to fill you up and keep you energized all afternoon.
Whole-grain peanut butter crackers
As if college students needed another excuse to eat peanut butter, these often come in perfectly portioned packs (aim for ones with 200 calories or less). While the peanut butter has filling protein, the whole grains in the crackers take longer for your body to digest than the regular kind made with bleached flour.
Part-skim cheese stick + granola bar
Cheese can get a bad rap for its fat content, but most brands offer a part-skim option. The fiber-packed oats in the granola bar add satiety, but be sure to choose one that has no more than seven grams of sugar. Too much sugar equals crashing and burning later, which is the last thing you want when you’re trying to quickly jot down notes!
Hummus + veggies
I know, veggies aren’t the most exciting snack in the world, but you have to fit them into your diet somehow. Swap out the ranch dressing for protein-packed hummus (you can mix it with a packet of taco seasoning to add a Tex-Mex twist). Next time you hit the dining hall, fill a plastic bag with pre-sliced peppers, celery, etc. from the salad bar.
Trail Mix
You can customize trail mix to your liking or buy it pre-packaged. Going with the theme above, make sure to include ingredients that deliver that dynamic duo of protein and healthy carbs. Some ideas: whole-grain cereal, almonds and/or pistachios (both offer heart-healthy monounsaturated fat and protein), dark chocolate chips and dried fruit.
Study hard and snack on, Bobcats!
Emily McIntyre is a senior studying journalism with a focus in news and information. What snacks get you through the day? Let Emily know by emailing her at em564912@ohio.edu or tweeting her @emjmac95.
