Choosing healthy snacks for work is a delicate process; foods should be easy to prepare, simple to store, and filling enough to be satisfying. And according to WebMD, it’s also important to choose balanced foods that provide a healthy energy boost.

Increasingly busy workdays mean less time to fuel up at lunchtime. Too often this leads to unhealthy bingeing caused by hunger, or choosing sugary or high-fat snacks from the vending machines. Since we can’t create more hours in the day, the next best way to maintain a balanced diet is to plan smartly and keep healthy options on hand. And luckily, sometimes the simplest foods to prepare make the healthiest snacks.

• Hard boiled eggs – These are a cinch to prepare and can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. To protect against over-cooking eggs, heat the water to just before the boiling point instead of preparing them in boiling water. Cook medium eggs for 9 minutes and large eggs for 15, and dunk them in cool water then store in the fridge or serve them warm immediately.
• Avocado – For a healthy snack that takes almost no preparation, simply slice an avocado into thirds, remove the pit, then spoon low-fat cottage cheese into one of the thirds. These 200-calorie snacks are decadent, filling, and rich in fiber and protein.
• Yogurt parfait – Jazz up plain non-fat yogurt by adding any fruit of your choice and a small handful of sliced almonds. Berries are an especially delicious choice, and can be used fresh or frozen for added convenience. Most fruit has enough natural sweetness, or add honey for an extra treat.
• Wheat crackers and peanut butter – Peanut butter is a snacking dream. Not only is it convenient to store and prepare, it is full of protein and packs an energy punch.  Smear it on high fiber wheat crackers for a quick and yummy snack.
• Popcorn with brewer’s yeast – This salty crunchy snack is a healthy alternative to potato chips or other high-fat foods. Bring air-popped popcorn from home, or pop a small bag in the microwave at your workplace. Add brewer’s yeast for a nutty, cheesy flavor that is packed with B vitamins.
• Pre-measured nuts – Most nuts are healthy options for snacking, but be careful not to overindulge. Pre-measure nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans into the recommended serving size and store in reusable containers for a no-fuss, satisfying snack.

Source:

• “The Best Healthy Snacks in Your Supermarket”, WebMD

Food On The Table can make dinner easier. Learn how here.