UGirl's Guide to Healthy Snacking
Put down the potato chips.
by CARINA COESTAD ★ FEB. 18, 2019
Finding a healthy snack on campus isn’t always easy, especially with junk food readily available at vending machines around campus. It can be tempting to pick up a bag of chips or a candy bar between classes. But if you have a healthy snack on hand, you won’t need to give in to Cheetos (even though we’ve all been there). Here are the top five healthy snacks to keep in your bag, dorm and anywhere you go!
1. Protein bars
Protein bars are perfect on the go snack. While many are perceived as “healthy,” most are loaded with sugar and other artificial ingredients. Next time you pick up your favorite granola bar, take a look at the ingredients on the label. The good news is that a ton of brands are coming out with healthier bars! RXBar, Lara Bar and GoMacro bars all have great ingredients and can even be found in stores throughout campus like Starbucks and Pages Café in Bird. Lara Bar’s Cashew Cookie and the Chocolate Sea Salt RXBar are especially delicious and both taste like you’re having dessert – but have REAL healthy ingredients!
2. Hummus
Hummus is definitely one of the more typical healthy snacks, but is a go-to for a reason. It’s made of chickpeas, which are high in protein and fiber. Fortunately, you can find hummus cups throughout campus and in the dining hall. Enjoy with veggies or whole grain crackers for a simple and satisfying midday snack
3. Popcorn
If you’re craving something salty, try munching on a bag of Boom Chicka Pop or SkinnyPop Popcorn. These brands have only 30 calories per cup and have super simple ingredients. You can also pick up other flavors if you’re feeling fancy! It’s the perfect munchy for a movie night or after a long night out.
4. Nut butter + banana or apples
If you could easily go through a peanut butter jar a week, make sure it’s natural with no other ingredients besides peanuts and a little sea salt. UGirls will love rice cakes or GG crackers topped with peanut butter, banana and cinnamon. Apples with peanut butter are a good go-to as well!
5. Rice cakes
Rice cakes are all the rage in the health community these days and for good reason! They’re low calorie, filling and can literally be topped with anything your heart desires. They’re great not only with nut butter, but also topped with avocado, hummus or even yogurt. They can even be used as toast replacements or to make rice cake sandwiches! Start your sandwich with a little bit of hummus or avocado and then add some sliced chicken or turkey on top with veggies and mustard to satisfy that Subway craving.
With midterms right around the corner, it’s super important to stay on top of your health. Next time you find yourself eating unhealthy snacks out of convenience, try some of these nutritious options and see how much better you feel after fueling your body properly. Giving your body the best ingredients possible is an amazing form of self-care!