Eating well in college is one of life's more difficult tasks. Often without easy access to a kitchen, and little to no money for food, taking care of yourself becomes a lot harder. Between work, class, and a social life, it's important to make time for health and wellness. But, even if you do happen to make the occasional 12 p.m. food run to the nearest fast food place, it is possible to eat well while you are in college. Sticking to the basics of a well rounded diet, here are some of the cheapest and healthiest food and drink options for college students.
1. Bananas
"This sh** is bannas! B-A-N-A-N-A-S!" The flavorful fruit is still one of the best most versitile foods out there and also among the cheapest. Take one for a snack, throw it in the blender, or even use one to make cookies! All around, they're a healthy complex carb to fill you up and give you energy throughout the day.
2. Whole wheat bread
Yep, I said it and I know you are suprised. BREAD? In this day and age of gluten-free everything, you want me to carb load? You can eat what you want, but humans have been eating bread for centuries and it hasn't killed anyone yet. Carbs, like everything, can be really good for you in moderation. Throw it in a toaster and grab some peanut butter, avacado, or an egg, and you have yourself a pretty healthy snack or lunch.
3. Greek yogurt and granola
At least for young women, some plain, Greek, non-fat yogurt, is a great source of protein, and it is chalk-full of probiotics. Add a bit of honey if you don't like it bitter, grab a bag of your favorite granola, and you, my friend, will have yourself feeling like the new host of a TLC show.
4. Eggs
Scrambled, sunny-side up, boiled, on toast, in a salad, eggs are creamy and versitile as well as good for you. Drop the salt and stick to just pepper because eggs are high in cholesterol, but one a day will help you get the boost of protein you need to get your work-out on.
5. Leafy Greens
BeLEAF me when I say that you absolutely need to up the greens in your diet. What better way to do it than with a salad? Grab a bag of mixed greens throw in some olive oil, lemon, and a hint of salt with your favorite veggies for a healthy meal!
6. Carrots and hummus
Yummm and triple yuuuummmm this snack is super healthy and delicious! Try to keep your hummus low in sodium and fat, but high in protein for the helathiest option!
7. Popcorn
What better snack is there? Get a bag of unpopped kernals, swap out butter with olive oil, shake in some pepper, and you have the perfect study snack! You can even invite some friends over to the dorm for a movie night!
8. Chicken
Put in pasta, or add a side salad and this lean meat has got you covered. Most grocery stores even sell whole pre-cooked chickens!
9. Green tea
This is great for your metabolisim, with just enough caffeine to keep you going. This is a much healthier alternative to your Starbucks latte, and just as good! Get it cheap at almost any store in town
10. Almonds
While this is easily the most expensive item on the list, it is also the most worth it, and many stores sell it in bulk! For a quick snack or mixed in to trail mix, almonds are a great food to have in your diet!
