College kids have busy schedules, which can make it difficult for them to eat at regular mealtimes. Snacks fit better in their active lives. This gives snacks an important role to play in their daily eating habits. Being unaccustomed to making their own food choices, college students may gain weight due to poor eating habits. Having healthy snacks on hand will help.
Low-Fat Dairy
One way to curb hunger pangs and still eat healthy is to keep low-fat dairy products around, the Cleveland Clinic notes. These include skim milk, low-fat yogurt, low-fat cottage cheese and other cheeses made from skim or 2 percent milk. Low-fat dairy products offer protein, which provides energy and helps you feel full without adding excessive calories and fat. Dairy products also contain calcium and other important nutrients. Single-serving containers are easily stored in a refrigerator.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are healthy snacks and are easily portable. Fruits and vegetables generally have a low calorie density, so you can eat a lot without adding lots of calories to your diet. They are generally a good source of fiber, which will help you feel fuller for longer, and they provide a wide array of important vitamins and minerals. Dried fruit is the easiest to carry around, but keep in mind that dried fruit packs a large amount of calories in a small amount of food.
Whole Grains
Candy bars and potato chips share the one common characteristic of being too high in sugars and other carbohydrates that are quickly broken down. Although these foods will provide a temporary energy boost, they can leave you feeling hungry again after a very short time. For this reason, KidsHealth.org recommends foods made with whole grains, such as whole-grain breads, pretzels and crackers. Whole grains are broken down more slowly, provide lasting energy and can be combined with protein, such as peanut butter or dairy, to help you fight hunger.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are high in protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and are easy to eat on-the-go. The unsaturated fats in nuts and seeds can lower your cholesterol, too. Watch your portion sizes, however; nuts and seeds can be high in calories, so they can wreck your diet if you eat too much.
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