Eat this Not That: Snack Edition

Something to Dip:
When you are on the go and have to dip something, it is easy to grab the crowd favorite Nutella&Go. However for about the same amount of calories, Sabra Hummus and Pretzels Thin Cups contain just 1 gram of sugar. It's low in saturated fats, sodium, and cholesterol. Here is a full list of flavors they come in: http://sabra.com/products/category/Hummus

Something Nutty:
Not all nut butters are not created equal. JIF makes pre-packaged peanut butter cups at 250 calories at piece. While they are perfect for traveling (dipping apples, adding to oatmeals, or just eating with a spoon) they are a concotion of peanuts, salt, sugar, and hydrogenated oils. Instead, try Justin's nut better varieties will all the good creaminess-or crunchiness- of traditional nut butters but none of the added processing. Read more about JIF peanut butter scam here: http://naturalsportsmedicine.blogspot.com/2012/02/jif-omega-3-peanut-butter-scam.html

Something Fruity:
It goes without saying that fresh fruit is best! Don't settle for sugar-loaded fruit cups. Some are "flavored" and loaded with preservatives, caramel, and sugar. Exactly. There is NO  reason that fruit should be covered with these ingredients.

Something Crunchy:
Baked chips and Chex Mix are in nearly all vending machines and the combination of textures and seasonings can become addicting. While the average 130-calorie per serving is not bad for a snack, normal packaging can contain up to 8 servings! Instead, go for Kashi cereal cups. I crunchy, dry cereal is a good afternoon snack and only contains 140 calories per serving... or even better, natural or roasted unsalted nuts!  Here's a link to a good website comparing the differences between baked and traditional chips: http://www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/baked-chips-as-bad-or-worse-than-fried/

 Something Cheesy:Let's be real here, KRAFT is an America staple. Plus, who doesn't love indulging in some good macaroni and cheese?! However, today's quick and cheap microwave varieties come in a an unnatural cheese powder that is loaded with sodium. Instead, take it back a couple of years and try some string cheese! They are pre-portioned and come in a half a dozen different flavors! Pair it up with some apples, grapes, almonds, and crackers if you are feeling extra fancy. However, if you must have macaroni and cheese then go for Annie's macaroni and cheese. They are 100% organic and I can pronounce all the ingredients. However, currently on the market, there is not a quick microwavable version like its KRAFT counterpart so you would have to make it ahead of time :/

-Eating Clean in College