When you’re busy and on-the-go, having healthy food choices in a snap is a must. There are a lot of snack options to choose from, but not all of them are good choices for a healthy lifestyle. The best snacks contain beneficial nutrients and ingredients you can actually pronounce. Snacks with protein and fibre and that are low in sugar will keep you energized and curb your hunger so you can avoid making poor choices later in the day.
The best way to keep your snack habits in check is to know yourself. Pay attention to when you’re hungry and what you’re craving the most (sweets, salty and crunchy, etc.), and figure out some go-to healthy alternatives to fit these cravings. Then, take a few minutes each morning to pack smart snacks for the day and you’ll be prepared for when hunger hits. It’s called “smart” snacking not only because it’s healthy, but also because it’s easy, delicious and satisfying.
Portable snack options help prevent crashing or giving in to poor food choices no matter where you are. Try out these tricks:
• Invest in a reusable snack bag or resealable bags to keep a stash of your own snacks in your purse, car or gym bag.
• Keep non-perishable snacks in your office or desk drawer, like instant oatmeal, almonds, baked chips, pretzels, dried fruit and a jar of almond butter. Add fresh ingredients such as yogurt, apples, grapes, cheese or whole-wheat toast to create a variety of snack combinations.
• Seek out smart snacks on the road, such as pre-packaged vegetables and dip, edamame, fruit and cheese, baked snacks or nutty trail mixes that you can portion out mindfully.
• Snack bars that use whole, unprocessed ingredients are perfect for stashing in carry-on baggage.
• Bottled vegetable juices contain nutrients and fibre in a pinch; just be careful about added sugar.
More information is available online at www.AlmondBoard.com.