The typical college food-scene is often filled with energy-dense foods and midnight sweet treats. While this certainly lays the framework for some awesome memories made, it’s important to also have some strategies in place to incorporate nutrient-rich foods. Having an adequate, balanced diet can make all the difference while trying to focus on schoolwork!
Dairy foods provide many essential nutrients like calcium, potassium and vitamin D that many Americans are not getting enough of. Try these fun and easy ways to bring dairy to the dorm room.
Greek Yogurt and Fruit
Greek yogurt is one of the best bang-for-your buck snacks packed with at least 12-20g protein, calcium, beneficial bacteria, and so many other nutrients! Greek yogurt cups can easily fit in the college-dorm mini-fridge and paired with a fruit can make a great snack to fuel your day.
Cheese and Crackers
Cheese and crackers are a great option for a dorm room snack and the combinations are endless! Since natural hard cheeses like cheddar and Swiss have minimal amounts of lactose, this is an easy way for those with lactose intolerance to get dairy in their diet. If you are looking for a fun dorm-room activity, try a charcuterie board party. Ask friends to bring a variety of cheeses, crackers, nuts, and fruit to make it a well-balanced board.
Overnight Oats
Overnight oats offer the flexibility to accidentally sleep past your alarm for those early 8am classes and still give your body the balanced breakfast it needs. Between the oats which provide fiber and the milk which provides calcium, potassium, and vitamin D, overnight oats can be an easy way to incorporate 4 nutrients many Americans are not getting enough of. For those who are lactose intolerant- opt for lactose-free milk for the same great taste and 13 essential nutrients found in traditional milk!
Lindsey Hall is a soon to be RD currently completing her dietetic internship at VCU Health System in Richmond, VA. Her passion is promoting health and wellness and she aspires to work in community nutrition or nutrition education after graduation. She has a background in personal training and enjoys being outside and learning more about our food system.