One common issue that students face at university is managing appropriate eating and snacking patterns. With a busy schedule, it can be difficult to fit in time to grab a full meal, but leaving long gaps between meals can leave you feeling low in energy and unable to focus. If this sounds like you, read on to find tips about how snacking can help you feel and live better!

How much is enough?

• This will vary person to person, so listen to your body. I like to stop snacking when I’m no longer hungry but I’m not yet full.

Will late night snacking make me gain weight?

• Eating at any time of the day or night can lead to weight gain. Any excessive food energy will be stored in your body, which may lead to weight gain.
• If you tend to get hungry at night, consider eating dinner later, or check out one of the healthy snack options below.

How to choose a good snack

• A good snack should contain 2 of the food groups in Canada’s Food Guide:
  • Vegetables and fruits (ex: grapes, baby carrots, cucumber, orange, bell pepper, or berries)
  • Grains (ex: whole grain crackers, oatmeal, cereal, or toast)
  • Meat and alternatives (ex: hummus, nut butter, bean dip, nuts, or canned fish)
  • Dairy and alternatives (ex: low-fat cheese, 2% milk, soy milk, or yogurt)

Snacking on the go

• Pack snacks the night before and remember to bring them with you.
• A small, leak-proof container and Ziploc bags can be helpful for carrying snacks.

• When choosing a pre-packaged snack, go for options that are higher in protein and fibre. Both of these nutrients will help keep you fuller for longer.