A Classy Co-Ed and Healthy Snacking: Nutrition on the Go!

It’s three o’clock in the afternoon and your stomach won’t stop rumbling. You have another class coming up but your eyes quickly dart to the vending machine across the hall. While a candy bar or bag of potato chips may seem tempting at first glance, extra sugar and trans fat are certainly not the best options when looking for a mid-day pick-me-up.

Consider these healthier options that you can cook as on-the-go options to provide your body with the energy it needs to pay attention in class.

Peanut Butter And Banana Roll-Ups

Remember the days when your mom would pack you a PB & J sandwich for lunch? Channel your brown-bag, comfort food intuition by rolling peanut butter and sliced bananas on a whole-wheat wrap. The protein will keep you full and the bananas are packed with natural potassium and fiber. If you’re craving something sweet, a few chocolate chips sprinkled in won’t hurt.

Flavored Popcorn

Popcorn can be both a snacker’s best friend and worst enemy. If prepared well with tasty and low-calorie options, you may never opt for movie theatre butter again! Combine a personal, 100-Calorie microwave brand (such as Orville Redenbacher’s Smart Pop or Jolly Time Healthy Pop Butter) with your choice of Kernel Season’s popcorn seasoning. Popular flavors include White Cheddar, Apple Cinnamon, Ranch, Parmesan & Garlic and Caramel.

Sweet and Salty Trail Mix

The best part about making your own trail mix is that the ingredients are 100% up to you! For a healthy version, pair dried fruits with unsalted nuts. Pineapples, raisins and apricots pair well with pistachios, almonds and walnuts- but the options are endless. You can even mix in a few surprise ingredients like cheerios, pretzels or goldfish for something non-traditional.

Fruit & Yogurt Parfait

Who doesn’t like breakfast at all hours of the day? Turn this morning champion into a portable snack by transporting it in a jar with a lid. Layer low-fat granola, healthy yogurt (try Greek Yogurt for something extra filling) and fresh fruit (strawberries, raspberries and blueberries work best) for a snack that will catch everyone’s eye. It’ll almost be too beautiful to eat!

Granola Bar Mix

Is your box of go-to granola running dry? Combine a few of your favorite granola bars for a healthy alternative. You still get the flavors you crave in a controlled portion while also mixing multiple flavors together for something new and different.

And if your only option is the vending machine…

Look for low-calorie options such as baked chips, lightly salted pretzels and natural & organic products. Don’t be afraid to enjoy vending machine purchases in moderation- everyone deserves a little treat now and again. Happy snacking!

Meaghan O’Connor is a Writer/Social Media intern at College Lifestyles (TM) and is a Communications/International Relations major at the University of Michigan. She is a proud member of Alpha Chi Omega Sorority and is known for her big heart and big dreams.