Eight Healthy Snack Ideas for Any Situation
We're all eagerly looking forward to summer's arrival, but for now many of us are still hitting the books in school. Healthy eating is an important way to stay alert during the day, and chef Anthony Stewart and Tracy Wilczek of the _Pritikin Longevity Center ._in Florida know that it can be hard to find easy, healthy snacks to munch on. Here, they share a few of their favorite snack ideas that will keep your energy levels higher and brain functions sharper throughout all of your classes. (Don't worry—staying away from empty carbs and sugar is a lot easier than you think!)
1/5Choose these good-for-you foods that will keep you going strong all day.
Photo Courtesy of Kind.2/5What are the best snacks to bring to school?
Fruit is easy, portable, and full of nutrition! Vegetable sticks are also a great option, and many grocery stores sell pre-cut celery and carrots, so you don't even have to take the time to cut them!
What's an easy, healthy snack you can keep in your purse or backpack at all times?
Many granola bars are loaded with added sugars, salts, and oils, but if you make your own granola or find a pre-made variety that's low in all those added ingredients, that's a good choice.
Photo Courtesy of Fage.3/5What are the worst foods to eat if you need energy?
Foods that deliver empty calories and no nutrition, like soda, candy, etc. Get your energy (which you get from carbohydrates) and nutrition (such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, etc.) from real foods, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
**What's the best thing to have if you're dying for a sweet treat? **
Fruit! It delivers a great sweet taste and is packed with nutrition! Mix it into some plain, fat-free Greek yogurt and you have a sweet, creamy treat!
Photo Courtesy of Buddy Fruits.4/5I'm going to the movies with friends. What snack can I bring with me that's a good alternative to theater popcorn and candy?
Pop your own air-popped popcorn at home. It's a lot better than the pre-buttered, pre-salted, and artificially colored popcorn you'll get at the theater (and it's cheaper, too)! Sliced fruit, grapes, and cherries all make a great sweet alternative to sugar-loaded candy.
What's the best snack to eat before sports practice?
Fruit will give you energy, whole grains (granola, whole grain cereal, or a whole wheat low-sodium English muffin) will give you filling fiber, and if you're going to be practicing/playing for an extended period of time, beans are also great. If weight loss is not a goal, you can try nuts and seeds too.
Photo Courtesy of Hint Water.5/5What's the best thing to eat for breakfast if you have a big test that day? What should you avoid?
Oatmeal or a whole grain cereal is the best breakfast choice—it's full of fiber (fiber will help to keep you fuller longer)! Avoid those cereals loaded with sugars that will only keep you full and energized for a short time. A veggie egg white omelet (hold the cheese) is also a good choice. But I would recommend oatmeal or a whole grain cereal (like shredded wheat) more often.
**Besides water, what are some healthy alternatives to sodas? **
If you like the carbonation, try carbonated/sparkling water. Unsweetened iced tea is also a great alternative. Stay away from those beverages that are just loaded with added sugars (like the energy/sports drinks). For a flavored water without the added sugar or artificial ingredients, try Hint Water.
