Healthy Study Snacks

I don't think I know any college students who haven't stress eaten while studying. If you are some magical person with super human willpower who hasn't partaken in this behaviour, I hate you a little bit/encourage you to share your secrets with the world and make millions.

The problem for me, at least, stems from how difficult it seems to take a break from the books for anything other than eating, so food - even when you're not hungry - becomes all the more exciting. Since I have a mini-break in my own exam schedule right now, I thought I would take the time to give you all some tips on healthy alternatives to chips or other packaged junk you might be tempted to reach for in times of stress, as well as mini-breaks you can take from your work that don't involve eating.

1. Celery and Cream cheese

I love cream cheese so much! Buy light cream cheese when possible, and try to keep your portion to no more than 2 tbsp. When it comes to celery, however, eat as much as you want!

2. Laughing Cow Cheese

Light Laughing Cow cheese is 25 calories and only has 1 g of fat, so it pretty much can't be beat when it comes to a low-cal craving satisfier. Try it with some Ryvita or Wasa crackers, or spread on a slice of whole wheat toast. Top with sliced cucumber or tomato for some extra flavour.

3. Veggies and Hummus

This is something that I literally eat everyday. Hummus is filling and you'll sneak some of your daily protein in with your snacking - multitasking is always a bonus, right!? As usual, eat as many vegetables as your heart desires!

4. Pretzels and Mustard 

I hadn't tried this combination until this week, but now I am hooked! Pretzels are just as satisfying at chips, but more filling and lower in calories. If you can, get ones with low salt. Mustard is a great dip, but when times get tough, breaking out the Nutella is a delicious, sweet alternative (try to keep it to a tbsp-ish-sized serving, though).

5. Popcorn

My favourite are the Blue Menu mini-bags! They're only 100 calories and are perfect if you want a snack to munch on while studying because they take a while to finish. 

6. Trail Mix

I just made this giant container of my own trail mix this weekend, but you can absolutely buy pre-made if you're super busy. I might have gone a little crazy on the treats this time (bananas, raisins, and TWO kinds of chocolate chips), but generally try to keep the dried fruits and or chocolates to a moderate level. I mixed all those yummy things with roasted, unsalted cashews and soy nuts.

Here are some guidelines for nuts, brought to you by Nutrition Action Magazine (my fave) to help you pick your perfect mix!

A few extras from my favourite blogs to keep you inspired: 

-Apple Nachos from Manifest Vegan

-Kale Chips from Kath Eats Real Food

-Your guide to granola bars from Eat Spin Run Repeat

-Roasted chickpeas from Oh She Glows

-Single-serving treats from Chocolate Covered Katie

Before you bite into these yummy brain foods, ask yourself whether you're actually hungry or reaching for food because you're bored of studying. If you're eating because you're feeling a little burnt out, try to take a little break that doesn't involve food! Here are some suggestions:

-Take a walk or run

-Go to the gym

-Do a Blogilates workout (they're super short and you can do them in your room!)

-Paint your nails

-Clean (literally my favourite stressed-out activity)

-Read an article or a chapter in a book

-Watch a TED talk, a College Humor skit, or a silly youtube clip that has nothing to do with what you're working on 

-Do an at-home hair mask or face mask

-Have a mini-dance-party/sing-along in your room (this is my fave scream your lungs out jam) 

Good luck on finals! Eat mindfully and study hard :)