30 Healthy College Snacks
 With all the reading, writing and studying, college kids need some next-level brain food. Luckily, healthy snacks give you all the energy you need without the sugar crash of sweets.
Sneak in a Snack
Snacking can become a regular habit at college, away from Mom's warnings not to spoil your dinner. With a little inspiration and creativity, these healthy snacks won't ruin your diet.
- Pita Pizza - Don't worry, you can still have a late-night pizza snack — include all the essential ingredients of your favorite pizza on some whole-wheat pita bread.
- Nutella Bites - Trick those sweet-tooth cravings with this high-energy snack that combines oats, shredded coconut, chia seeds, honey and Nutella to provide fiber, protein and vitamins.
- Hummus - Pair this delicious spread with pita chips and vegetables like celery or carrots for a nutritious treat to power you through your next study session.
- Peanut Butter Apple Wrap-Ups - Spread chopped-up apples and peanut butter on a whole-grain tortilla for a quick and healthy snack.
- Crackers with Nut Butter - Choose from almond butter, peanut butter and sunflower butter to pair with whole-grain crackers for an easy afternoon snack.
- Frozen Yogurt Banana Slices - Dip banana slices in Greek yogurt and freeze them for a fun snack that is high in potassium and an excellent source of energy.
- Avocado Toast - Get your fill of healthy fats by making whole-wheat toast with some chunky avocado spread on top.
- Whole-Grain Cereal - If you're looking to make time for breakfast to kick-start your metabolism, try including some whole-grain cereal and skim milk into your morning routine.
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Grab It To-Go
Between class, review sessions, office hours and club meetings, life at college is always on-the-go. Save a couple of bucks — and your diet — with these healthy portable snacks to take with you.
- Trail Mix - The best way to approach this tasty snack is to make your own so you include healthy ingredients like dried fruit, nuts, seeds and cacao nibs.
- Larabars - Grab this quick, gluten-free energy bar the next time you are late to class or need a snack on-the-go.
- Applesauce - Look for unsweetened applesauce during your next trip to get food. This drinkable snack contains plenty of vitamin C, fiber and potassium to supply nutrients in your daily diet.
- Nuts - Cashews, almonds and peanuts are all loaded with protein to keep you fuller for longer and power those late-night study sessions.
- SkinnyPop Popcorn - Try this pre-popped popcorn at your next movie night with your roommates for a low-calorie alternative to movie theater butter.
- Dried Fruit - Avoid the high sugars of candies and desserts with organic dried fruits. Options include dried apples, bananas, mangos and pineapple, so you're sure to find one you like!
- Vegetable Chips - Throw away the Doritos and Cheetos in your dorm room and bring in a healthier alternative like veggie chips. Made from parsnips, sweet potatoes and beets, you will hardly even notice the difference from regular potato chips.
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Make It in a Mug
Easy to make and easy to clean up. What more could you ask for?
- Omelet - Crack two eggs in a mug, microwave them and add your choice of toppings like spinach, tomatoes, low-fat cheese and salt and pepper.
- Nachos - Spice up your snack selection and make nachos complete with whole canned beans and a dollop of Greek yogurt right in your dorm microwave.
- Fried Rice - Have leftover rice from dinner last night? Get resourceful and mix it with egg whites, sweet potatoes and chickpeas for a protein-packed breakfast.
- Mac 'n Cheese - Switch up your routine of eating store-bought mac 'n cheese and help your diet by creating your version with low-fat cheese.
- Quiche - Make breakfast every day and get your intake of veggies with this five-minute mug masterpiece. All you need is spinach, egg, cheese, milk and salt and pepper.
- Oatmeal - Simply add in your normal oatmeal ingredients and microwave until cooked. If you want to get a little fancy, add apples, bananas or blueberries.
- Yogurt Parfait - Layer Greek yogurt, fruit and granola in a mug and put it in the refrigerator for a quick breakfast the next morning.
- Blueberry Muffin - Take the healthier version of this bakery delight and bring it to the microwave for a quick breakfast.
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Stay Hydrated
You're not thinking if you're not drinking! Help your body maintain its status quo with these healthy fluids so you can keep up with college life.
- Water - Drink up, because water keeps bodily functions normal and helps students stay focused longer.
- Coffee - While some people may drink 10 cups of coffee a day, the healthy aspect of this drink lies in moderation. Don't drink too much, and use low-fat milk while skipping the cream and sugar.
- LaCroix - Substitute unhealthy sodas with a zero-calorie, sparkling water alternative that includes a variety of flavors.
- Milk - Choose your milk of choice (skim, soy, almond, coconut) to supply your body with calcium, potassium and protein.
- Fruit Smoothie - Boost your immune system by blending your favorite fruits and take it to drink on the way to a review session.
- Green Tea - Look for this healthier alternative the next time that afternoon slump hits to get beneficial antioxidants and just enough caffeine to give you a boost.
- Coconut Water - Fill your daily magnesium and electrolyte needs with nature's energy drink.
By using these nutritious ideas for snacks and drinks, you can enjoy your next treat while staying healthy and thriving in college.
Celine Ives is a college student who enjoys playing field hockey, cuddling with her dog and cheering on her Carolina Tar Heels.
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