Students run hectic lives and let’s face it they don’t always get the nutrition they need.  When going to school students often have classes one after another, and have homework and study time before and after school.  Most students have the idea of “grab something and go”.  Yes, this does save time but is not a very healthy way of eating.  When a student gets hungry at school and has a few minutes to spare in between classes where do they go?  Yes, the vending machine of course.  Most vending machines carry sweets, candy bars, chips, donuts and a ton of unhealthy foods.  These vending machines may be the reason a student is overweight.   Daily trips to the vending machine call for an expensive and unhealthy snack.  What students need to realize is that there are easy, affordable and healthy ways of making a snack for school.  Try out some of these snacks the next time you go to school!

Any type of Granola bar  Whether they are Quaker bars, fiber one bars, or kudos bars they are healthier than any candy bar.  These often have low sugar, protein, vitamins, or fiber.  These are a quick, tasty and inexpensive snack!

Trail Mix.  Almost everyone loves it so why don’t they pack it?  It is very easy get your favorite nuts, M&Ms, raisins or any dried fruit.  This is also a quick and easy snack.  Once you’ve bought these items make a couple bags ahead of time so now you can “grab it and go” the healthy way.

100 Calorie packs.  These packs are like $3 and can last you the whole week.  These are great because there are a ton of different varieties. 

Fruit.  Everyone loves their fruit.  Grab an apple, a bag of grapes, or a banana.  Just make sure it’s nothing that is messy or takes time to prepare like an orange.  Oranges are a great snack but if you’re in a hurry that’s not the best choice unless it’s peeled and bagged already.

Drinks.  You need to stay hydrated especially when walking outside the campus in the summer.  Be sure to throw a water bottle in your back pack.  If you’re not a big water drinker and like some more flavor, try a propel they’re great and have hardly any sugar or calories!

Beef jerky.  Everyone loves beef jerky especially the guys.  These are great because they are high in protein.  Protein is important because it helps build your muscles and gives you energy.  Just be sure to watch out for a high dose of salt when you buy them!

Peanut butter sandwich.  These are great because they are both filling and have protein.  It is a little meal and will keep you going a little while longer until you get home.

These are great snacks to consider when going to school.  They are all very inexpensive, healthy and taste great.  Just take a few minutes before school to pack the snack.  Your body will appreciate it much more than a trip to the vending machine.  Stay healthy and choose wisely!