WHAT I EAT ON CALORIC DEFICIT 🍋🫶

Hey everyone! So many of you asked about how I manage a calorie deficit while juggling college life, and let me tell you, it's definitely a learning curve! When I first started, my base calorie goal was around 1,650, and as a 5ft 3in girlie, I went from 145 lbs to 138 lbs by really focusing on what I ate. It's totally doable, even with a busy student schedule, and I'm excited to share more of my tips and calorie counting recipes for college students! Breakfast Boosts to Start Your Day Right: Beyond just a granola bar or yogurt, I've found some great ways to make breakfast satisfying. If you're short on time, a quick protein shake with a scoop of my favorite Alani Nu Confetti Cake Whey Protein Powder mixed with water is a lifesaver. Sometimes, I'll grab a Kodiak S'mores Protein Bar for a quick bite on the go – it feels like a treat but packs protein! And of course, my morning ritual includes a scoop of OxyShred with water before anything else to kickstart my metabolism. Smart Lunch & Dinner Choices on Campus: Eating out or at the dining hall doesn't have to sabotage your goals. For lunch, instead of a heavy burger, I often opt for a customized Chicken Burrito Bowl from places like Chipotle. I load it up with brown rice, lots of veggies, leaner protein, and go light on cheese and sour cream to keep the calories in check. It's so satisfying and feels like a real meal! For dinner, sushi is a favorite – I usually pick nigiri or simpler rolls like a Meijer Sushi Chef Special avocado roll or cucumber roll, avoiding anything fried or drenched in creamy sauces. Pair it with some Baked Ritz Chips (sour cream and onion are my weakness!), and it's a perfect balanced meal. If I'm craving something comforting, baked chicken nuggets with a big salad hit the spot, or a thick, fruit-filled smoothie bowl with a scoop of protein. My Go-To Snacks for Calorie Deficit: Snacks are crucial for keeping hunger at bay, especially when studying! I always keep fresh fruit like apples or berries on hand. Those convenient snack packets from Aldi are amazing – especially the Natural Colby Jack Cheese & Turkey Sausage Bites from Park Street Deli. They're portion-controlled and satisfying. Popcorn (air-popped or light microwave bags) and a small handful of goldfish crackers are also great for when you need something crunchy without going overboard. The key is to have them pre-portioned or know your limits. Pre & Post-Workout Fuel: Before my workout, I'll mix another scoop of OxyShred with creatine (yes, the same one I add to my post-workout shake!) in about 10oz of water. The OxyShred gives me that extra energy and fat-burning boost, while the creatine helps with muscle building. After hitting the gym, it’s straight to that protein drink with my Alani Nu Confetti Cake Whey Powder and a spoonful of peanut butter for healthy fats. Remember, it’s all about making smart swaps and being mindful. Don't be afraid to experiment with different calorie counting recipes for college students that fit your taste and schedule. You've got this!