Healthy Student Food

College students often do not spend time focusing on healthy meal plans and foods. Due to a busy course schedule, social life, lack of funds and awareness, most students settle into a routine of eating quick, easy and cheap foods. Unfortunately, many of these convenience foods are also unhealthy for you and may lead to typical college weight-gain known as the freshman 15. Poor eating habits also increase the risk of health concerns such as diabetes or vitamin deficiencies in the future. There are many foods that students can incorporate into a daily meal plan that are budget, time and health-friendly.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are nutritional powerhouses that are rich in essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals. A piece of fruit such as an apple, pear or chopped veggies including baby carrots or celery sticks, make a quick and portable snack to grab and go when you are busy rushing to class or studying for an exam. Produce are low in calories, have little to no fat, no added refined sugars and are a source of dietary fiber. Purchase produce that have longer shelf lives to ensure they don't spoil quickly and refrigerate and store appropriately.

Beans and Legumes

Although many students would prefer to eat burgers and fries, beans are a nutritious and healthy addition to the diet. Beans and legumes such as lentils are inexpensive making them ideally suited to a student's budget. They are best purchased in dried forms to avoid the high sodium contents commonly found in canned varieties. However, there are increasing canned products that have no salt added to them on the market today. Also, if buying canned, rinsing them prior to cooking helps eliminate much of the added salt. Boil or bake beans in tomato sauce and serve with rice and veggies for a healthy meal.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a healthy food that can be convenient and budget-friendly to meet student's needs. Oatmeal is low in calories, fat and a source of dietary fiber. This whole-grain food retains its nutrients during the milling process and is a source of essential B vitamins and carbs that provide energy to the body. Its fiber content fills you up and decreases the risk of hunger cravings shortly after eating. Purchase oatmeal in single serving packets that have no added sugars or rolled oats by the bag.

Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is a healthy food to add to a student's diet in moderation. This spread is high in protein and healthy fats to satiate the appetite; its protein content aids the body in muscle growth and repair functions. Peanut butter is also a protein alternative to vegetarians or vegans who don't eat animal products. It can be purchased in large or small containers for cost-efficiency and under cheaper brand names. Purchase all-natural varieties for maximum nutrition as these have no added sugars or oils. Enjoy a serving or two of 1 or 2 tbsp. spread on whole wheat bread for a healthy lunch or snack.