Sooner or later you will get sick of the food served at the dining hall, so when that time comes prepare yourself by grabbing these healthy, affordable and yummy options.
We have compiled a list of our top go-to foods that we reach for when hunger strikes. These foods will help you get through those 8 a.
m. classes, fuel your all-nighters and give you energy to party into the wee hours.Breakfast
Quaker Oats Instant Oatmeal Flavor Variety Pack
For hectic mornings, these little instant oatmeal packets are a lifesaver. Oatmeal is high in fiber and will keep you full and satisfied till lunchtime. The Quaker Oats line offers a bunch of flavors you can choose from and it literally takes three minutes to get it from the microwave to your table. You can even top it with some fresh fruit, nuts, honey, etc.
Yogurt
Yogurt has probiotics, which are beneficial microorganisms that survive throughout your digestive tract, including your large intestine. The live active cultures naturally found in yogurt help keep your bowel movements regular, which is important for colon health. You can eat it with honey drizzled on top or you can get creative and make a parfait with berries and granola. We recommend Fage Total Classic Plain Greek Yogurt because it contains the most protein (20 grams) per serving.
Chocolate Milk
This delicious treat is actually really good for muscle repair making it an essential part of your post-workout meal. We love Horizon’s Organic Low Fat Chocolate Milk because you can just throw one into your gym bag.
Snacks
Nuts
Nuts are an easy to pack mid-day snack and they’re super easy to keep in your purse, in your car or in your desk drawer. Almonds, pistachios and macadamia nuts are the healthiest choices and have the most nutritional benefits. Make sure to toast them to release the natural oils, so you get the optimal benefits from your snack.
String Cheese
A throwback from our lunchbox days, string cheese is a great source of protein. One stick has around 8 grams. Plus, it’s just fun to eat.
Sabra Hummus Single Serving Packets
Hummus has significantly less calories and fat than your average dip, since it is made with chickpeas. You can dip virtually anything in it from pita chips to vegetable sticks or you can eat it right out of the package. We prefer them with either carrot, celery or red bell pepper sticks.
Dried Fruit/Fresh Fruit and Vegetables
This one is a no-brainer. Always take some fruit back with you after eating at the dining hall. Celery sticks and peanut butter, anyone? We also like dried apricots, craisins and dried apple slices. Mariani makes a good Island Fruits mix, which has dried mangoes, papaya and pineapple.
Lunch & Dinner
Lean Cuisine Frozen Dinners
Whatever you’re craving, whether it’s Chinese, Mexican or Italian, Lean Cuisine has something for you. Recently, they released their Honestly Good line, which has 100% all natural, wholesome ingredients.
Trader Joe’s Salads
They’re complete (toppings, dressings, etc.) and come in a single serving size. Trader Joe’s has everything from a classic Cobb Salad to an Asian Chicken Salad. We really like their Broccoli Slaw and Kale Salad.
Campbell’s Healthy Request Soups
Choose from 33 mouthwatering soups that are certified by the American Heart Association. Our favorites are Hearty Italian-Style Wedding Soup with Meatballs and Spinach, Roasted Chicken with Country Vegetables and Tomato with Basil.
(Feature Photo via We Heart It)