Sarah
We all know that nursing school is not easy- in any given day students wake up before sunrise to go to clinical and then almost immediately go to class, often leaving when it is dark out. In between we have jobs, homework, hanging out with friends, and more! The days can be incredibly long which can leave us sacrificing our own health to learn how to help other people with theirs. But you cannot help others without taking care of yourself and part of that is making sure you fuel your body with enough food. I joke with my friends that no matter what image is being shown in class, we are all eating snacks through it. In fact my friends and I have an unofficial snack rotation where we all bring in food for each other. So here are some healthy snack tips to help fuel you through nursing school!
The best snacks are the ones you like
Seems pretty obvious but one of the first things I learned when packing food for myself is that if I bring food that I don't like because "it's healthy", I won't eat it. That apple will travel in my backpack for a week until I throw it out no matter how hungry I get. On the other hand, if I pack cherries, I will look forward to eating them. Fruit or berries are a great option for a bit of a sugar boost, but make sure it is a type that you want to eat.
2. Make sure that it is filling
We have all been there- packed an amazing salad or even a sandwich for lunch and then been hungry not even 30 minutes later. Maybe it was in the name of eating healthier or convenience but it fell short. When your running around all day your going to need food that will last and fill you up for a long time. There is nothing wrong with salad but try to include protein like eggs or chickpeas and make sure that you pack enough of it. I like meal prepping and making a big pot of rice at the beginning of the week that I can bring with vegetables or chicken really easily. I find that having carbs and protein helps to keep me full longer. Ultimately, your going to have to find what food work for you, but eating healthy does not mean being hungry.
3. There's nothing wrong with convivence
I always have granola bars in my backpack and they often have chocolate chips in them. It's quick, convenient, and I know they will give me the boost I need to get through the rest of clinical or class. If I forget or run out of time to bring food with me, I usually still have some granola bars in there. Even if they are not the healthiest, I like them and eating something is better than eating nothing. It is easy to forget to eat and then feel like your going to pass out or simply be exhausted. Granola bars or another snack that you can just keep in your bag without thinking about is a great option for long days. If you are the type of person that likes to have options you can even get a variety pack and have a few different kinds to choose from.
4. Remember to treat yourself
Eating junk food everyday often doesn't make you feel great. However, avoiding all junk food can make you crave it even more. Most things are ok in moderation. I try to eat fairly healthy throughout the day but I always keep chocolate stocked. Some days you just need a treat, and that is ok. Don't feel bad for eating something you like just because it isn't considered healthy. Your surviving nursing school, you deserve it!
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