03/27/2025
Fueling My Freshman Year
Healthy Snacks for an Almost 40-Year-Old College Student (and 400 lbs. Down!)
Embarking on college at 39, after losing 400 pounds, has been a transformative experience. It's a journey filled with new challenges and discoveries, and one of the most important lessons I've learned is the significance of proper nutrition. I've realized that food isn't just about nourishment. It's about fueling my body and mind to succeed in this new chapter of my life. Below are some tips to help you out.
The Snack Revelation:
My relationship with food was always complex. Years of trauma and unhealthy habits had led to a strained connection with food. Stress eating played a role, but the real issue ran much deeper. I was living with an undiagnosed vitamin deficiency since birth, unknowingly affecting my weight and health. This realization was a major turning point in my life. The irony was the world was slowing down during the pandemic while I was finally ramping up.
The Protein Connection:
Working closely with my bariatric endocrinologist, I began to understand the importance of providing my body with the right fuel. He explained that my body is like a high-performance machine, think Buick Grand National, that needs the proper fuel and maintenance to operate at its peak. This new perspective finally transformed how I viewed food. I shifted my focus from restriction and cheating myself to nourishing my body with the nutrients it needed to function at its best and learning to treat myself.
Snacking as a "Mature" Student:
More Than Just Calories
As an older student, with 20 years of life experience more than many of my academic colleagues, my approach to snacking drastically differs from that of traditional college students. I have learned I need to be mindful of my body's unique needs and fuel it accordingly and also, I have learned to schedule snack breaks throughout the day, treating them as important as my study sessions. This helps me maintain consistent energy levels and prevents me from reaching for unhealthy options when I'm feeling sluggish.
The Freshman 15 (and Beyond):
Avoiding the Pitfalls
The Freshman 15 is a real phenomenon for many younger college students and some older ones. It’s easy to fall into the trap of unhealthy eating habits in between classes, studying, and the brief moments where you can have some semblance of a social life. The abundance of fast-food options and late-night study sessions can make it challenging to maintain a healthy proper diet. I've learned that moderation is key. A slice or two of pizza or a few chocolates occasionally won't derail my own progress, but it's important to avoid overindulging. Two slices and a can of soda is fine, a whole pizza and a 2 liter soda is not.
Snacks for Success:
Fueling My Academic Journey
Protein-rich snacks have become my secret weapon for success. They help by providing me with sustained energy throughout the day, staying full longer, and helping me stay focused during lectures and study sessions. I've noticed a significant improvement in my concentration and overall performance since incorporating these snacks into my diet in the recent years. It's a testament to the power of proper nutrition in supporting my academic goals. Trust your gut.
Budget-Friendly Snacking:
Making Healthy Choices Affordable
College life can be expensive, and financial aid sometimes isn’t enough. It is important to be mindful of your budget and your wallet. Utilizing all the resources available to you, like college food pantries and local free meals, is a valuable resource for students facing financial challenges. I encourage anyone who needs assistance to take advantage of these resources. Additionally, buying in bulk can help you save money on healthy snacks. My Amazon list includes many affordable and nutritious options that won't break the bank. My favorite are the Dark Chocolate Almonds which come out to about $0.40 an ounce - https://amzn.to/4c94Ncc
My Top 3 Snack Picks (From My Amazon List): A Caffeine Kick, Protein Boost, and a Sweet Treat
Nespresso Pods: College life often involves late-night study sessions, and I've found that a good cup of coffee is essential for staying focused and energized. Nespresso pods have become my go-to for a quick and delicious caffeine boost. - https://amzn.to/3DYwuI2
Jack Link's Peppered Jerky: Convenience is key when you're juggling classes and a busy schedule. Jack Link's Peppered Jerky provides a convenient source of protein and satisfies my cravings between meals. It's a perfect on-the-go snack that keeps me fueled and ready to tackle the next challenge. - https://amzn.to/3Xzq5K6
Kinder Bueno Minis: Let's be honest, sometimes you need a little sweetness. Kinder Bueno Minis provide a satisfying treat without derailing my progress. I practice moderation, savoring each bite mindfully. - https://amzn.to/4hN2v3y
My Go-To Quick Meal:
A Microwave Omelet
As a busy student, a quick and easy meal option is always the best, especially when they are both nutritious and delicious. My go-to meal is a simple microwave omelet. I start by adding a few drops of olive oil to a microwave-safe bowl and swirling it around to coat the bottom and sides. Then, I crack an egg into the bowl and season it with salt, pepper, oregano, and a pinch of garlic powder. Use your favorite seasoning, add some paprika, sazon, or adobo. After whisking the egg, I add a handful or two, it will wilt down to nothing, of baby spinach and a few slices of shredded cheddar cheese. I cover the bowl and microwave it in 30-second intervals, checking on it frequently. Let it sit after you microwave it as the egg is basically a ticking time bomb if you overcooked it and the bowl is extremely hot. It's a quick and easy way to get a healthy and satisfying meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Curbing Cravings:
Finding Healthy Alternatives
There are always healthier alternatives to satisfy your cravings. It's about making better and conscious choices while finding ways to enjoy food without compromising your goals. I've discovered that exploring new and healthier options and ingredients I have never thought to try has been a rewarding part of my journey. It's about finding what works for you and creating a sustainable approach to eating that supports your overall health and well-being.
Baked Potatoes and Homemade Nuts:
Simple and Delicious
I love baked potatoes and baked sweet potatoes. They're a simple yet satisfying meal. My preferred method is to drizzle olive oil and seasonings on a potato, wrap it in plastic wrap, and microwave it until tender. Let it rest for a few minutes before unwrapping to avoid burns. For a quick and easy snack, I like to make my own seasoned nuts. I toss plain nuts with olive oil and seasonings, then bake or roast them until crispy. It's a simple and delicious way to add variety and flavor to my snacking routine.
Hydration and Grazing:
Finding What Works
I'm a fan of zero-sugar cola. It's not the healthiest option, but I enjoy it in moderation. I'm also a grazer. I've found that consistent snacking throughout the day helps me maintain those needed stable energy levels and prevents me from getting overly hungry throughout the day. I've learned to listen to my body's cues and snack when I feel the need. Like before, trust your gut.
My Relationship with Food:
Advice to My Younger Self:
Embrace the Journey
There are always better options available. Explore and discover new and healthier snacks. You don't need to eat the whole bag or box. Practice moderation and enjoy the journey of finding what works best for you. Remember, it's about creating a sustainable approach to eating that supports your overall well-being.
Check out my Amazon list for some of my favorite healthy snacks: https://amzn.to/4hTrzGa
What are your go-to study snacks? Share your tips and recommendation.
Shop recommended products from AKosmidisJoint on www.amazon.com. Learn more about AKosmidisJoint's favorite products.
