Where to find affordable, healthy food near campus

BEING HEALTHY DOESN’T HAVE TO BE EXPENSIVE

Most people have probably broken their New Year’s Resolution of eating healthier by now. Through some try and eat right, it’s just easier to grab a bag of chips before heading out the door.

It’s hard to make the right choice and opt for the healthier option-especially in a world where fatty, buttery, and delicious junk food is so accessible, and incredibly inexpensive. Why would someone pay $13 for a salad when they can buy at least two combo meals from Taco Bell for the same price.

Shopping for healthier food isn’t any easier. Three organic fuji apples from Whole Foods is $1.99. So, even if people want to shop for fruits, vegetables, and organic products, their wallets will still suffer simply because of how expensive healthy options are.

Being a college student means being constantly on the go, and having limited time to pack a meal or snacks while being health conscious. With fast food restaurants spread out in Downtown, it’s difficult to find places that won’t break the budget and make one feel sluggish right after.

The Sentry did a bit of research and found three healthy spots located on 16th st. that won’t hurt a student’s wallet, and will also leave them full.

Five on Black is a hip spot great for a relaxed, midday meal with some friends. This Brazilian food at an affordable price. For a small bowl, a customer can add rice, their choice of vegetables, sauce and other adding, which comes to $6.45. The best part about Five on Black is the gluten-free options. Many students have dietary restrictions, so being accommodated can lessen the stress.

Next up: Mad Greens. Mad Greens has an abundance of vegetarian options and is a definite go-to spot for a quick pick me up, with appetizing plates such as the Edgar Allen Poe (baby greens, apples, pears, walnuts, blue cheese crumbles, and grilled steak), or the Mona Lisa (mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, spinach, pesto, and balsamic vinaigrette on a whole wheat tortilla), for $7.95

Last stop: Protein Bars. This L.A.-esque spot believes sacrificing great taste for fewer calories isn’t doable, and offer a variety of appetizing dishes like Chicken Chili soup, Baja Guac, and the Basic Black Bean Burrito. The $7.99 bowl includes chicken, quinoa, black beans, cheddar cheese, and fresh salsa. Protein Bar is much more accommodating to vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten-free restrictions. There are great options for protein, including all natural chicken, tofu, and falafel.

Time and money are two valuable things to students, so being able to find a healthy spot to eat with quality food without having to waste time or money, is all they can ask for.