Eating healthy shouldn’t stop at home. You should try to eat well when you’re at work, too. But when you’re in a rush, fast food and take out can seem tempting. And once you get to the office? There are phone calls to make, papers to file, and meetings to attend. You know how it goes! But healthy snacks can help you stay on your A-game, no matter how crazy it gets. Here are 7 ideas for eating well at work.
1. Granola Bars
For the busy bee on the go, granola bars will save the day. They’re non-perishable, easy to pack, and come in a million different flavors. They are usually packed with fiber and protein, too. Just be sure to avoid sugary options. Your best bet is to keep a few bars at your desk. This way, you’ll have a snack when you need a pick-me-up. You can even make your own! It’s a great excuse to browse the Web for the perfect recipe.
2. Vegetable Sticks
Sliced veggies like carrots, peppers, and celery double as awesome office snacks. Just be sure to keep them in a closed container. Otherwise, they might turn brown before you get a chance to eat them. You should also make sure that you have a refrigerator to store them in. Take it up a notch by pairing these veggies with hummus or plain yogurt with herbs.
3. Apples
An apple is the perfect grab-n-go snack. It calls for zero preparation in exchange for so much nutrition. You’ll be treated to a hefty dose of vitamin C, a nutrient that will keep your immune system in good shape. The fiber in it is also great for digestion. If you’re craving more flavor, bring a small container of peanut butter for an extra serving of protein.
4. Bananas
Like apples, bananas are cheap and easy to eat. They’re also extremely travel-friendly. Most importantly, they can give you a healthy burst of energy without the crash. This is because the sugar in bananas is released slowly over time. So if you need a snack, grab a banana. It beats going on another coffee run before a meeting.
5. Hummus
Thanks to chickpeas, hummus is full of healthy protein. This will increase satiety and help you feel full for a long time. And since hummus is so versatile, it pairs well with crackers, pita bread, and pretzels. It also has a long shelf-life; you can buy a big tub at once. Keep things interesting by adding ingredients like herbs and sundried tomatoes.
6. Roasted Chickpeas
You can also enjoy chickpeas by roasting them. This savory snack is an excellent substitution for salty chips! To make your own, toss a can of chickpeas with two tablespoons of olive oil. Add your favorite spices and herbs. Black pepper, oregano, and garlic salt are all yummy choices. Bake in the oven at 450 degrees for 30 minutes or until crisp and crunchy. Consider making this healthy snack the night before work or at the beginning of the week.
7. Yogurt
Eat some yogurt for a healthy dose of protein, probiotics, and calcium. But be sure to stay away from the flavored kind. These are usually full of sugar and other preservatives. Instead, consider adding fresh fruit or cereal to plain yogurt. You’ll get a more natural dose of flavor without the artificial sweetness.
Of course, don’t forget about water. Staying hydrated throughout the day will help you focus and concentrate. And thanks to these healthy snacks, you can forget about the vending machine once and for all.
