Fall is a time to get back in routine. Whether you’re returning back to the books or trying to keep up with your busy work and social schedule, eating right, let alone snacking smart, can be very difficult to do. But don’t get caught in the never-ending cycle of snacking on whatever passes your mouth. Get a lesson in snacking healthy with these delicious, convenient and accessible snacks that are easy enough to tote around in your handbag anytime.
Organic Apples
We’ve had it pressed into our minds that an apple a day will keep the doctor away and the saying remains true. Whole, sliced or even paired with a one teaspoon of almond butter “ apples make a handy snack to have on hand. Not only do they contain they contain a fair amount of vitamins including Vitamin C, but apples also provide at least 7 percent or more of dietary fiber intake based on the Daily Value. But why choose organic apples? Well, organically grown apples do not contain pesticide residues and are usually grown in an environmentally friendly environment, so you can be confident that none of your nutrients are being compromised.
Almonds
For those who aren’t already obsessed with munching on almonds “ you don’t know what you’re missing. Yes, there are many snacking variations and twists on almonds, like chocolate almonds or yogurt-covered almonds, but plain ol’ natural almonds can’t be beat when you just have to nibble on something. A handful of almonds provide a good amount of protein and iron. But don’t go overboard with your intake since almonds are also high in fat and carbohydrates.
Greek Yogurt
Probably the most easiest and one the most delicious snacks to tote around in your handbag- this yogurt is the winner when it comes to nutritious snacking. With a rich smooth texture that keeps you wanting more and depending on the brand, Greek yogurt offers Vitamin C, protein and is low in sodium. But be cautious: Greek yogurt can be very high in saturated fats, so try and buy a brand that is low in fat and comes in portion-sized cups for serving control.
Dark Chocolate with Acai
You cannot include a list of on-the-go snacks without including chocolate. That’s just the rule of good eating. Lucky for chocolate-lovers such as myself, inventive minds like Brookside Foods, who created the snack Dark Chocolate Acai and Blueberry, have fused together dark chocolate and Acai to make the ultimate and sweet tooth pleasing combinations. Of course you should already know that dark chocolate has many benefits “ besides just tasting so good “ such as natural plant nutrients and offers magnesium, potassium and calcium, but did you know that when combined with Acai it doubles up the antioxidant intake? Yes, it’s news that pleases everyone.
Gluten-free Popcorn
Popcorn never fails to satisfy and if you didn’t know, there is a gluten-free option to the highly addictive snack. Gluten-free food, which has become a popular selection amongst celebrities such as Miley Cyrus and Kim Kardashian, and even though neither have Celiac disease (which the gluten-free diet is recommended for) this snack can be eaten by anyone with any eating background. Try and use organic air pop kernels when popping the corn and add spices such as cayenne or toppings such as grated cheddar cheese. And if you’re carrying it on the go, make sure to let the popcorn cool before sealing it in a plastic snack bag.