Be it juggling work, family, or personal issues, snacking is most important in keeping you charged the whole day.
Give up sugary treats that drop you with a crash and consider making these easy, nutritious snacks to keep you going throughout the day.
1. Greek Yogurt Parfait
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 2 tablespoons granola or nuts
- Drizzle of honey (optional)
Instructions:
Layer Greek yogurt with mixed berries and granola in a bowl or jar. If desired, finish it off with a drizzle of honey. This is packed full of protein, antioxidants, and healthy fats, making it the ultimate morning/afternoon snack option.
2. Nut Butter Banana Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 banana
- 2 tbsp. of almond or peanut butter
- Sprinkle chia seeds or cinnamon over it, if desired
Instructions:
Slice the banana into disks and then coat each with a thin layer of nut butter. Sprinkle some chia seeds or cinnamon over for extra nutrition. Rich in potassium and healthy fats, these bites will keep you energized throughout.
3. Veggies and Hummus
Ingredients:
- Assortment of fresh veggies: carrots, cucumber, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup hummus
Instructions:
Serve sticks or bite-sized cuts of vegetables with hummus to dip into. The combination will provide fiber, vitamins, and protein in a crunchy and satisfying snack.
4. Overnight Oats
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- Toppings: fruits, nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup
Instructions:
Mix the rolled oats, almond milk, and chia seeds together in a jar. Stir, then cover and place in the fridge overnight. Wake up in the morning and add your favorite toppings to a quick, nutrient-dense snack high in fiber that keeps you fuller longer.
5. Energy Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 c. rolled oats
- 1/2 c. nut butter
- 1/3 c. honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 c. chocolate chips/dried fruit
- 1/4 c. flaxseed (optional)
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until well combined. Roll into small balls and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Great no-bake energy snacks, highly customizable when it comes to your favorite mix-ins of choice.
6. Cottage Cheese and Pineapple
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks fresh or canned
Instructions:
Combine cottage cheese and pineapple in a bowl. This snack is high in protein and, with the addition of the natural sugars found in pineapple, will help give an extra boost of energy.
7. Apple Slices with Nut Butter
Ingredients:
-1 apple (of any kind)
-2 tbsp almond or peanut butter
-Pinch of cinnamon, to taste
Instructions:
Slice the apple and serve with nut butter for dipping. The fiber in the apple, along with the protein in the nut butter, will keep you full and energized.
8. Roasted Chickpeas
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Spices of choice: cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the chickpeas with olive oil and spices on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until crispy. These crunchy snacks are high in protein and fiber; thus, they are good for maintaining energy levels.
Snacking can be healthy and isn't always lethargic. By incorporating these easy, healthy snacks into your daily routine, you will find yourself able to keep your energy level up and support overall health. Remember to always balance your snacks with protein, healthy fats, and fiber for the best results. Happy snacking!
No comments: