Welcome to the life of Jenn, a returning college student on a mission to maintain a healthy lifestyle, while living off dining hall food.  I will be sharing my experiences with healthy eating, nutrition, tips, and tricks on living life to the fullest while in college!  Here are a few great food finds to boost your mind and body throughout those exhausting classes and busy schedules.  Dining halls are mostly full of greasy, cheesy, loaded with fat foods, but here are a few healthy lifesavers you can find in practically any dining hall.

• Salad.  Don’t be afraid to load up your plate with salad and veggies.  Just steer clear of full fat dressings and cheese.  Add plenty of veggies, such as broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, cucumber, etc. to keep your belly full.

• Grilled chicken.  Grilled chicken is a great source of lean protein.  Just make sure to ask if the cooks have added a special sauce or have cooked it in a mountain of butter.  See if you can get it prepared without the butter. Then add some fresh salsa on top for flavor.

• Peanut butter on whole grain bread.  Peanut butter is very satisfying and keeps you fueled throughout long study sessions.  Most dining halls have peanut butter sandwiches you can purchase or make yourself.

• Non-fat yogurt/greek yogurt.  If you can find greek yogurt in your dining hall, stock up.  Greek yogurt can contain as much as 15 grams of protein making a very satisfying snack.  If greek is not available, choose non/low fat yogurts, which still contain calcium that your body needs.

• Fresh fruits.  Dining halls usually keep a nice variety of fruits on hand.  You don’t have to settle for just an apple or banana.  Try to find kiwis, strawberries, grapes, or watermelon, which all provide plenty of nutrients.

Jennifer Williams is a sophomore at Ball State University, a College Lifestyles(TM) intern, and a laid back gal who loves hazelnut lattes and Urban Outfitters.