Tasty and healthy office snacks you’ll love

Tasty and healthy office snacks you’ll love

When you’re stuck at the office working long hours, it can be difficult to eat healthfully unless you plan ahead.  That’s why snacks are an important addition to our regular meals.  The human body needs fueled every 3-5 hours when we’re awake just to keep your metabolism charged and your energy level high. 

When that mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack attack arrives, before searching around in your drawer for spare change to use at a vending machine, keep a stash of healthy desktop snacks instead. By having low-calorie, nutritious snacks in your briefcase, desk drawer or in a cabinet, you’ll be able to fulfill the eternal quest – a snack that is healthy, convenient, and best of all, tastes great and is sure to satisfy when the 3 p.m. cravings hit.

Here are ideas of healthy yet tasty snacks filling you up while providing valuable nutrients promoting your health:

Healthy snacks to keep in your desk drawer

·      Quacker instant oatmeal packs – good source of fiber, protein, vitamin A, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, iron

·      Whole wheat crackers and peanut butter (use the “to-go” or singles portion sizes)  – good source of fiber, protein and complex carbs keeping blood sugar stable and you feeling fuller longer

·      Peanut butter and fruit – again, another match made in heaven for obtaining good source of fiber, protein, and complex carbs satisfying you until the next meal. 

·      Any fruit – grab an apple, banana, pear, grapes or other portable fruit before dashing out the door.  You’ll obtain a good variety of nutrients plus fiber and you won’t get bored with the same old snack

·      Tuna fish packets – good source of protein, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, selenium

·      Salmon packets – always a good source of protein andthe all-important heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids

·      Dark chocolate (at least 70% or higher cacao content) covered almonds  or a one ounce serving of dark chocolate with a small handful of almonds or walnuts – good source of protein and healthy fat

·      Homemade trail mix – depends on ingredients but most are a good source of fiber and protein

·      Almonds, dried fruit, and mini chocolate chips – Just the right mix of carbs, protein, and fat with a touch of natural sugar to satisfy a sweet tooth. 

·      Beef or turkey jerky – good source of protein but watch out for the sodium content and go with low-sodium versions instead

·      Mini pitas with hummus – Hummus made from chickpeas are a great source of soluble fiber which helps lower cholesterol.  For a protein boost, add in an ounce of low-sodium deli ham or turkey making a perfect fiber and protein combo. 

·      Snack bars – When you need something quick and convenient when having a sweet attack, look for a “healthy” bar that isn’t loaded with sugar.  Below are some brands that generally fit the bill:

·      SoyJoy fruit bars –most are good sources of fiber and protein

·      KIND bars – most are good sources of fiber and protein

·      Lara bars – most are good sources of protein, vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese

·      Kashi bars – most are good sources of healthy fats, fiber and protein

·      Popcorn – always a welcomed whole grain treat and a good source of fiber.  Try the convenient 100-calorie pack of Skinny Pop popcorn – the perfect size for a quick pick-me-up

·      Any nuts – almonds, walnuts, pistachios, peanuts plus  – good sources of heart healthy fats, fiber, protein, Vitamin B6, thiamin, magnesium, copper andlow carbs

·      Veggies with ranch – skip the high-fat, high-sodium snacks and opt instead for cut up fresh veggies like carrots, celery, snap pears or grape tomatoes.  Their high water and fiber content fill you up and are packed with all kinds of nutrients.

Healthy snacks requiring refrigeration

·      Greek yogurt – good source of calcium, probiotics, protein – sprinkle on top sliced almonds,  chopped walnuts or fresh berries

·      String cheese – good source of calcium and protein – pair with nuts

·      Individual cottage cheese containers – good source of calcium,  protein, and potassium

·      Homemade protein energy balls – this delectable recipe is made with seven good-for-you ingredientsproviding high-quality carbs necessary fuel for a burst of energy

·      Hard boiled eggs – good source of protein, riboflavin, vitamin B12, selenium and phosphorus

·      Sugarsnap peas, cherry tomatoes, grapes, fresh berries, baby carrots, clementine oranges, and apples – all good sources of fiber, various vitamins and minerals