We’ve all experienced a proper snack attack; when your mind gets stuck on satisfying a craving and decides that it NEEDS that food… or else.
Unfortunately for us foodies, those whims could set us back on our fitness journey. Indulging in large amounts of sugar or empty calories can be detrimental to our progress, and we’re here to remind you that it’s ok to have cravings, its ok to cheat every once in a while, but to really make those gains and improvements on your health, try planning out healthy snacks to bring with you so that you have a way out when you’re experiencing a snack attack.
When cravings hit, we have a choice; to stay disciplined and make a healthy choice, or give in to instant gratification and slip backwards from progress. Make it easy on yourself by having these healthy snacks on hand!
Here are some healthy snack options:
1. Fruit
Fruits are a top choice because they bring your body nutrient-filled energy in a natural way. They’re especially great because they are packed full of antioxidants, and are naturally sweet.
Some easy ones to store and eat are: Bananas, Oranges, Blackberries or Raspberries, Pears (so underrated), Apples and Grapes!
2. Snack House Protein Puffs
These Protein Puffs are our replacement for when you’re really craving a bag of chips or a bowl of cereal. They come in a variety of flavors, are easily transportable and super convenient to keep on hand.
The best part is each pack has 15g of protein for ~130 calories, so you can get that satisfaction of a tasty "cheat" snack without sidelining your goals.
3. Nuts and Trail Mixes
These are also very easy to store and take with you on-the-go, which really is essential for good snacking hygiene. Nuts themselves are nutrient dense, satisfying, and have even been linked to increased cardiovascular health.
Trader Joe’s has fun nut mixes that are perfect for snacking. You can also make your own trail mix by throwing in some dried fruit, dark chocolate covered nuts, sunflower seeds, or any other nuts that you love.
4. Protein Bars
Having bars on hand is a saving grace when you need something sweet and easy to carry along in your bag.
A couple good options are Aloha Bars (low in sugar compared to other bars) and GoMacro Bars (no additives or artificial ingredients).
5. Veggies and Hummus
Bring the whole container and leave it in the fridge at work, or pack a small container full of hummus and easily prepped veggies.
You can also make your own hummus super easily! Just blend chickpeas, tahini and spices together. Level it up with some carrots, celery, peppers, cherry tomatoes or sugar snap peas to snack on the hummus with.
6. Hard Boiled Eggs
2 hard boiled eggs have 12g of protein! They’re super simple to make in the morning while you’re prepping for the day. Try spicing them up by marinating them in soy sauce, garlic and rice vinegar before eating them.
7. Protein Shakes
At our office, we keep TRU protein stocked and ready for daily shakes. Having a scoop of protein powder gives you 20g of protein and a great pick-me-up. It’s satiating and easy to make.
8. Energy Bites
If you’re into making recipes and have extra time in your schedule to do so, try making some protein bites for the week. There are so many recipes out there, check TRU Recipes for some ideas.
9. Greek Yogurt with Fruit or Granola
Greek yogurt contains tons of vitamins and less sugar than normal yogurt. It’s a great way to feel like you’re indulging in a tasty treat, but you’re giving your body nutrients and sustained energy instead!
Dress it up with any fruit you have, chia seeds, granola and honey.
10. Low Sugar Alternatives
Processed sugar is addictive and leaves you feeling gross after the crash. Despite this, sugar cravings are real and consistent. Try getting No-Sugar Added alternatives instead!
Our favorite is the chocolate candy covered peanuts Daddies from Snack House Foods! These taste just like chocolate covered peanuts, and have 5g of protein per pack! It's great because you get the same taste, but without offsetting your progress.
Another place with low sugar candy alternatives is Smart Sweets. They have several dupes for candies you're probably familiar with.
Snacking doesn’t have to be detrimental to your success. Plan ahead of time and keep different snacks on hand so that it is easier for you to succeed and stay disciplined in your health journey. You don’t have to avoid treats altogether, but making the better choice whenever you can will make a significant positive impact in your life.
