Quarantine got you snacking? SAME.

The convenience of working from home mixed with boredom and stress means snacking is at an all-time high right now.

BUT…

Snacking isn’t always a bad thing! Sometimes we need an energy boost and snacking is the perfect solution. I’m not talking about grazing or constantly checking the fridge to see what’s “new”. 

I’m taking about SAVVY snacking. Satisfying, satiating, nutritious snacking. To make it easy, I created your COMPLETE guide to snacking. 

Should you be snacking?

Ideally yes! Eating every 3-4 hours keeps your energy up and hunger at bay. If you get hangry like me, a snack between meals satisfies hunger and keeps your momentum going.  That being said, not all snacks are created equal and some might do the OPPOSITE.

What to look for in a snack

A winning snack combo is one with fiber + protein. Why? They’re filling and nutritious. Protein and fiber are satiating, meaning they fill you up and help you STAY full.

Think about it. Are you satiated after snacking on a bag of chips? If you’re anything like my boyfriend, nine times out of ten that bag of chips was accidentally finished in one sitting and you’re still hungry.  

Say you replaced the chips with apple slices (fiber) and peanut butter (protein). Would you feel full? Absolutely. Was it nutritious? Duh. Were you satisfied? I sure hope so.

Winning Combos

Finding snacks with fiber and protein is a lot easier than you think. Here are some of my favorite snack combinations.  

Greek yogurt + berries 

Even plant-based yogurts can be a good source of protein, plus the fiber and antioxidants in berries add the perfect amount of sweetness.

Fruit + Nut Butters

The combinations are endless! Stick with your classic apples and peanut butter or switch it up. I highly recommend Justin’s Chocolate Hazelnut or Almond Butter with bananas.

Veggies + whole grains crackers + hummus

A little hummus goes a long way. Like peanut butter, it’s a good source of protein but as an added bonus, it’s lower in calories and contains fiber.  Pack  in some more fiber with your veggies and crackers and you’ve got a pretty good snack. 

Freeze Dried Fruit + Nuts

It’s like a DIY trail mix but better. Try mixing a bag of Crispy Fruit with a handful of almonds or walnuts. Toss in some chocolate covered chickpeas for some chocolatey goodness. 

Chia Seeds + Milk + Cocoa Powder

Otherwise known as Chia Pudding.. duh. Not only are chia seeds loaded with fiber and protein, but they’re natural thickening agents.  Add 2 tbsp  chia seeds to 1/2 cup milk + 1 tbsp cocoa powder, refrigerate, and allow it to thicken.

Snack Away!

Remember, snacking IS important for maintaining energy throughout the day and keeping you from getting hangry. Savvy snacks have protein and fiber, and are satisfying, satiating, and nutritious.