Eating healthy and staying on track with our dietary goals can be a challenge, especially when we lead busy and active lives. Smart snacking is an important part of any balanced diet, and nowadays there are plenty of options to go for when you’re running short on time. In this article, we will explore some of the healthier snacks that are perfect for on-the-go occasions.
1. Conquer Snack Time with Smarter Options!
Snack time is a crucial moment of the day; it provides an opportunity for a break from the daily routine and a moment of reward. Making smarter snacking choices can often be the factor that determines whether the day takes a turn for the better or for the worse. Here are some savvy snack ideas to stay in control:
- Ditch the prepackaged snacks: Let’s start by leaving the prepackaged chips, cookies and candy off the list; all of their ingredients are heavily processed and can cause blood sugar imbalances.
- Nuts and seeds: A pocket-sized bag of nuts and seeds is always a great snack option when you’re on the go. They’re filled with healthy fats, proteins, and carbohydrates and make for a high-energy snack.
- Fruit: Opting for a fresh piece of fruit is always a great call. Whether it is a juicy apple or a nutrient-dense banana, the abundance of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants makes them a superior snack.
Another great way to stay in charge of snacks is to make them yourself. Experiment with some creative recipes that combine nuts, seeds, grains, and fresh fruits. Healthy snacks don’t have to be dull and boring — get creative and make snacks that not only are healthy for you, but also taste great.
Don’t forget — A balanced snack should always include a source of protein, healthy fat and carbohydrates . Protein helps to slow digestion, which helps to keep a steady and balanced sugar level, while fat keeps you feeling fuller longer. Last but not least, carbohydrates are necessary as carrier molecules for vitamins, minerals, and energy. So keep this trifecta in mind for a balanced snack.
2. Nutrition On-the-Go: Healthy Snacking Simplified
We all know snacking aids in maintaining optimal health and energy levels. Unfortunately, it’s often difficult to find healthy snacks that are easy to take with us no matter how busy our lives become. Here are a few tips to help you stay nourished with minimal effort:
- DIY Trail Mix: Create your own trail mix using a blend of your favorite nuts, seeds and dried fruit. This is a great way to ensure that you’re getting all of the important vitamins and minerals while still keeping things interesting.
- Fruit/Veggie Chips and Dips: Making your own veggie-based chips is a great endeavor that can give you variety and convenience in your snacking. Slice up any root veggies (like carrots and potatoes) and bake them until they are crispy. Serve them with your favorite dip for a tasty snack.
- Protein Bars: Packed with antioxidants, protein and other beneficial ingredients, protein bars are a great choice for on-the-go nutrition. Pick options with no artificial ingredients and simple, recognizable ingredient lists.
If you’re really pressed for time, look for convenient pre-made snacks such as nut butters, nut-based bars, granola and even popcorn. Everyone’s body is different, so don’t forget to experiment to find what works best for you. Before you know it, you will have healthy snack options to always rely on.
Make sure that when selecting a snack, you are considering the quantity of the food (balance calories in vs calories out), the nutrient quality and the pleasure you will get from it. Remember, it’s much better to have a snack than to go hungry and experience extreme energy dips, poor concentration, difficulty accomplishing tasks and feeling discouraged.
3. Creative and Delicious Snack Swaps
Snacking can often be a nice way to break up the day but we all know that it comes with tonnes of unhealthy consequences. Don’t worry though, there are numerous snacks out there that taste great that won’t set you on a course for health disaster. Here are some to ensure your snacking remains as healthy as possible:
- Say goodbye to the chips and hello to some air-popped popcorn! Air-popped popcorn is still a tasty snack that won’t run too high in calories if you go for the plain variety. Make it interesting by using different flavourings such as herbs, garlic powder or even cheese-flavoured sprinkles!
- Fruit-infused water is a great snack swap. Not only is it full of flavour but also full of nutrients. Get creative with different cuts of fruit so you can experiment with different tastes.
- If you miss the crunch of chips, why not munch on some roasted chickpeas instead? Roasted chickpeas are a fantastic source of protein and they’re packed with fibre to keep you fuller for longer. Add your favourite seasoning to spruce it up!
Snacking has never been easier! Traditional snacks can often be loaded with sugar and fat that can make it unhealthy. Try out these snacks to stay on the healthy side. Have fun snacking and try something new!
4. Think Outside the (Snack) Box: Mix It Up!
Start with Unconventional Combos
Once you decide to break out of the “snack box,” you’ll find that the possibilities are endless. Think outside the realm of traditional snack combinations and experiment with new pairings. Try nuts and blueberries, yogurt and granola, or rice crackers and hummus. The combinations are limited by your imagination.
Try Healthy and Delicious Alternatives
Give your snack routine a healthy makeover by trying healthier options. Get creative with your snack ideas and add some variety. Here are some ideas you can try:
- Fruits and nuts
- Turkey and cheese roll-ups
- Oatmeal with chia seeds
- Yogurt with fresh fruit
Indulge in Something Sweet
A sweet snack can be the perfect way to satisfy your cravings. Curb sugar urges by trying some healthier alternatives such as pieces of dark chocolate, dried fruits, or homemade protein bars. If you’re in the mood for something a little more indulgent, whip up a frozen yogurt or smoothie for a healthier alternative.
5. Conquer Snack Cravings with Nutrition-Packed Goodies
We can think of many temptations that hide in the depths of our pantries. It takes a lot of self-control not to give in to those irresistible snack cravings. But what if we could conquer these moments with nutrition-packed goodies?
- Step one: Preparation. Stock up on healthy snacks such as raw almonds, walnuts, or pistachios. Cut up fresh fruits or veggies and put them in containers for when those cravings hit.
- Step two: Get creative. Think outside the box for ideas! Try making banana chips or zucchini fries. Or create your own trail mix with different nuts, seeds, and grains.
Plan Ahead. Just like with any meal, it’s a good idea to plan ahead for snack times. This way cravings won’t sneak up on you unawares and you won’t end up reaching for unhealthy sugary snacks.
Next time you’re trying to curb snack cravings, go for the protein and find a nutrition-filled alternative!
Eating on the go has never been easier or healthier. Smart snacking can provide us with the right balance of energy and nutrients, and give us the power to stay focused and energized to tackle our day. So what are you waiting for? Tune those taste buds and get snacking smart!
