Your stomach is rumbling and it’s still 2 long hours until lunch. Or maybe you’ve got the mid-afternoon munchies. Peering at the rows of colorful vending machine offerings, it’s hard to pick which will satisfy your cravings.
Even though the inviting packaging may boast special vitamins and nutrients, the fact is that approximately 80% of America’s prepackaged foods are banned in more than 100 countries. That’s because of the substances and preservatives found in popular brands – brands that are often thought of as the most reputable. On top of that, prepackaged foods are loaded with sugar, fat and sodium.
Instead, try bringing your own snacks from home. That way, you will have better control over what you’re eating, while still enjoying what you eat. Here are 5 healthy snacks for the office, taken from both Healthy Office Snacks and 88 Unexpected Snacks Under 100 Calories:
Whole wheat crackers and peanut butter – 10 multigrain wheat crackers and a tablespoon of peanut butter is just 193 calories and offers 2 grams of fiber. Read the peanut butter food label to ensure it doesn’t contain added sugar.
Nuts – Loaded with heart-healthy fats and other nutrients such as Vitamin E, calcium, magnesium and potassium, most nuts are just less than 200 calories per ounce – about 24 almonds – making for a great nutritious snack. If portion control is a problem, consider buying containers of mini nut packs available in most stores.
Mini pitas with humus – 3 mini pitas and 2 tablespoons of humus give you a 150-calorie snack loaded with soluble fiber that helps lower cholesterol and helps prevent heart disease. If plain humus doesn’t appeal to you, consider varieties with garlic, roasted red pepper or jalapeno.
Spiced-up popcorn – Either make air popped corn or use a special microwave popper, rather than bags that are loaded with artery-damaging oils. Instead of salt and butter, sprinkle on your favorite spices, such as garlic or curry powder. Or add parmesan cheese at 25 calories per tablespoon or nutritional yeast that offers a host of health benefits.
Veggies with dip – Slice up your favorite raw vegetables – carrots, celery, broccoli or cucumbers – and bring along a small container of low-fat dressing as a dip. Fresh veggies are nearly calorie free but deliver an amazing amount of vitamins and nutrients. If you’re looking to reduce the calorie count, consider trading the dressing for humus, yogurt or salsa.
If these tips might be helpful for someone you know who could be eating better and healthier snacks, share this article with them.
Sources
http://greatist.com/health/88-unexpected-snacks-under-100-calories
http://www.cookinglight.com/eating-smart/smart-choices/healthy-office-snacks-00400000065105/
http://innatehealer.blog.com/2013/07/12/5197104/
http://www.traditionaloven.com/articles/122/dangerous-food-additives-to-avoid
http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/disadvantages-prepackaged-food-2409.html
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