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Lifestyle

Lettuce for the Devil’s Lettuce: Healthy High Snacks

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at PITT chapter.

It’s 2AM. You’re high as a kite. There’s a bag of Cool Ranch Doritos. Game over.

The next day, you’re embarrassed, defeated, bloated, thinking: Did I really eat that whole bag of Cool Ranch Doritos? Yes, yes you did, and your roommate has a snapchat of you with chip beard to prove it (Please tell me this has happened to other people too). 

Fortunately, the munchies don’t have to be a duel-to-the-death, pantry-obliterating binge. In fact, there are many delicious (and cheap) options for the stoner to snack healthily (and I’m not talking about edibles). Here are a few:

1. Popcorn

Boom Chicka Pop popcorn corn
Kirby Barth

Air popped popcorn is a bangin’ high snack, with less than 30 calories per cup (compare this to a cup of potato chips, which contains over 120 calories). Not to mention, popcorn has many nutritional benefits, such as fiber, which aids in digestive health.

And for an extra “pop,” try garnishing with cinnamon or cayenne pepper.

2. Frozen Grapes

high berry grape
Kristine Mahan

Grapes are a good source of Vitamin C and antioxidants. They have half the amount of sugar as a Reese’s cup, and contain cancer-fighting chemicals. But why freeze them? Simple answer: its heavenly.

3. Apples & Peanut Butter

Study snacks apple slice apple
Jocelyn Hsu

While its easy to grab the metal spoon and “go to town,” apples are one of the best compliments for peanut butter. Not only do they contain fiber, vitamin C and phytochemicals, but they also promote the feeling of being “full” (a meta-strategy for the munchies).

4. Guac

high guacamole vegetable
Jocelyn Hsu

Guac is the holy grail of high snacks. It’s sophisticated, savory, and only $2.99 at Trader Joes! Avocados are also the most raved-about food of our generation, proven to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and maintain a healthy weight. Just make sure to go light on the tortilla chips (or swap them out for carrots).

5. Shelled Nuts

high nut pistachio
Lucy Bedewi

Shelled peanuts and pistachios are probably the most “strategic” snack choice. Not only are they a great source of protein and vitamins, but the hard casing will serve as an obstacle to prevent you from reaching rock bottom. 

6. Sparkling Water

high beer ice
Lindsay Paulen

Ok, this may be a stretch, but fizzy water is both a refreshing choice and a great palate cleanser. This 0 calorie beverage also contains carbon dioxide, which induces a “full” feeling, stopping you from possibly demolishing your pantry.

Well, there you have it folks! Next time you’re in the dairy aisle at the Rite Aid, eyeing that carton of Ben and Jerry’s, don’t give into the temptation. Trust me, your sober self will thank you in the morning. 

tbd.