Long hours spent studying in the library or your dorm room are inevitable during college. Personally, I've stayed in the library so long that I don't remember to eat until my stomach starts growling and I'm suddenly starving. Here are some quick & easy healthy study snacks that are delicious and will help keep you powering through until your work is finished.
- Apple peanut butter chip sandwiches: Slice up an apple and spread a little bit of peanut butter and sprinkle with chocolate chips on a slice. Place another slice on top and you have a mini sandwich!
- Banana nut oatmeal: Microwave 1/2 cup of oatmeal with 1 cup of water for 1.5-2 minutes. Then slice a banana and break up a few walnut pieces for a yummy topping.
- Air popped popcorn: Pop 1 or 2 cups of popcorn. Air popping is the healthiest method, however many brands such as SmartPop offer microwavable options. Try drizzling a little coconut oil on top for a unique flavor.
- Yogurt, fruit & granola parfait: 1 container of lowfat or nonfat yogurt + a few strawberries, raspberries and blueberries + 1/4 cup of granola= the perfect mid-study snack!
- Fruit kebabs: Place grapes, blueberries, kiwi, pineapples, oranges and strawberries on a wooden skewer to enjoy a refreshing rainbow fruit kebab.
- Corn tortilla chips & salsa: A few low-fat tortilla chips and some all natural/organic salsa have the right amount of spice to wake you up so you can finish studying for that midterm.
- Healthy trail mix: Mix peanuts, cashews, almonds, unshelled pistachios, banana chips, whole grain pretzels and raisins together for a healthier trail mix that won't make you crash from too much sugar.
- Edamame: Packed with protein and a refreshing taste, salt-and-peppered edamame is a great savory study snack.
- Strawberries & cool whip: For a sweet snack, try strawberries with low or non-fat cool whip.
- Dark chocolate: A few squares of dark chocolate may provide that extra boost of caffeine you need when you start nodding off. However, to make sure the chocolate is full of antioxidants and a good amount of caffeine aim for 72% pure cacao or higher.
- Hummus and veggies: Hummus and veggies are a perfect pairing when you need a more substantial snack. The more veggies the better as they are filled with vitamins and minerals to keep your mind sharp.
- Water: Good old-fashioned H20 is the first thing you should reach for when your tummy starts rumbling. Keeping hydrated improves focus and also curbs hunger so you aren't tempted to reach for the first unhealthy snack you stumble upon.
Bon appetit!
xoxo