Well, it’s that time of year again that many still have to dread! For those in which it has been some time (including myself), I am talking about heading back to school. Yep, it’s that time of year when you are buying things (for yourself or for your little ones) that you necessarily don’t want to buy but need to buy.

Books, pencils, binders, and papers are just all the things that you want to spend your money on.

Not!

It’s also that time of year when college students pack barrels full of food as they restart or begin their college journey. I know from helping my friends and seeing the food inside their dorm rooms that there is plenty of junk food to go around.

These foods that they place in those barrels can easily be substituted for healthy alternatives. Read below and see how easy these meals can go from weak to strong with some added ingredients.

1. Mac and cheese

The sixth wonder of the world! This is an absolute Godsend to many college students. There is nothing better than just popping food in the microwave and after 2 minutes….you have heaven in your palms. Yet, eating all that pasta and just walking to class is not going to keep those pounds down.

Substitute: Diced vegetables instead of the macaroni

Cut back on that pasta and add some frozen mixed vegetables. This will provide some A, E, and C vitamins resulting in a true college A+.

2. Energy drinks

Rockstar, monster, red bull, and Sobe are some energy drinks that I had back in college. There is not much of a choice since every college student is going to have an all-nighter.

Substitute: coffee and plenty of water

As many may not know, coffee is a lot healthier than it looks! Especially for men, drinking 1 to 3 cups of coffee will lower their risk of prostate cancer by 30%! Not a bad choice for something that keeps you alert throughout the day. In addition, drinking plenty of water will also provide a little energy boost. Surprised? You shouldn’t be! Chemical reactions in the human body need water. Without proper water in the human body the chemical reactions slow down and so will the host.

3. Ramen noodles

Since mac and cheese is the sixth, than this would have to be the seventh wonder. As Maury Povich would say…99.99% of college students have this staple tucked away somewhere in their dorm. I am pretty sure ramen noodles were invented by the cave men. That is one food (post college) many are trying to wean off.

Substitute: pepper, broccoli, and turkey

Well, I really don’t want to mess with a great college delicacy, so the best thing to do is add to it. While stirring your ramen noodles, toss in some sweet peppers, broccoli, celery, and some thyme leaves. Once you pull it out of the pot, throw some turkey (lunch meat) and spinach on some bread and have at it!

-Phil