College is tough, and junk food is tempting. But swapping sugar and carbs for protein and fiber has never been easier.

How often do you want a study snack? Or grab a snack between classes? Or eat want something sweet before bed? Long story short, snacks are an inevitable part of the college experience, and they increase your energy levels and attention span.   

Here are some snacks that you could easily replace with healthier options:  

1. Microwave popcorn vs. packaged popcorn. If you know me, you know my love of popcorn. You probably even share it at this point. If you don't know me, it's time to get to know Skinny Pop, Boom Chicka Pop and Live Love Pop. 

2. Candy bars vs. KIND bars 
Snickers - 250 calories, 4g protein, 27g sugar
Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate + Protein KIND bar - 200 calories, 7g protein, 10g sugar

The same goes for Twix, Reece's and Kit Kat. Need I say more?

3. Skittles, M&Ms and Sour Patch vs. dried figs, apricots and raisins. My definition of fruit is "nature's candy." It's true. Fruit is sweet, and fruit can be dessert. When you're craving sugar, remember that fruit satisfies your cravings for sugar just as much as processed, artificially-flavored candy. Oh, and don't forget that dried fruit averages 7g of fiber per serving.

4. Ice cream vs. frozen yogurt, greek yogurt, or no-sugar-added options. Like you needed another reason to grab fro yo with your girlfriends. Save up to 200 calories a serving by substituting ice cream with yogurt. Go with no-sugar added (NSA) to slide even more nutrition into your cup! Just don't pile candy and sauce on top! Instead, opt for nuts, fruit and/or cinnamon. You'll be pleasantly surprised with the way a healthier, more satisfying version satisfies your sweet craving.

5. Chips and dip vs. veggies and hummus. With football season (well, let's be honest - any season), chips & dip are the ultimate snack. Unfortunately, it's easy to get carried away. If you can't control your portion size (I know I can't) sub that sour cream & onion dip with a low-fat hummus and those  potato chips with veggies. Carrots, celery, bell peppers, broccoli, zucchini, you name it. This will curb your salty appetite because you still get that "dip & crunch" feel.

Homemade artichoke dip is also a great option! 

6. Store-bought vs. homemade trail mix. Trail mix is dangerous. Too dangerous. It seems healthy, but it packs the calories. Do not be deceived: peanuts do not equal health, especially when combined with chocolate chips and coated with sugar.

My alternative? Buy some almonds, walnuts, cashews, pumpkin seeds, raisins and/or unsweetened shredded coconut in the bulk section of your grocery store. Go home, throw them all into a bag, and shake it like a polaroid picture. (You know it's been a long week when you reference OutKast).

These simple substitutions will increase your energy, give you nutrients and balance your mood. Snacking has never been so easy!