Nine Healthy Emergency Snack Ideas

When it comes to leading a busy life, we tend to put errands first and our health second. This can cause food cravings and hunger strikes at the most inopportune times, often prompting us to make poor food choices. Experts advise eating 4-6 small-to-moderate meals a day, as opposed to 2-3 large ones, as this will keep your metabolism and energy levels running high. Fortunately, there are plenty of healthy options around to nourish us on-the-go - and many don't require refridgeration.

1.) Apples - Apples are a great choice as they are not only packed with fiber, but a bag of apples can often be found for just $2 or $3. They also don't need to be kept cold, and are in fact tastiest at room temperature. Keep a bag in your car and reach for one when you're stuck in traffic. If you're not going to eat dinner for awhile, add peanut butter - the protein will hold off your hunger till you finish your errands.

2.) Trail mix - Trail mix is also a great car-snack, as it's versatile and long-lasting. You can buy packaged trail mix, or make your own - mix peanuts, almonds, cashews, brazil nuts, dried cranberries and raisins into a snack that is filled with protein and fiber. Remember to only grab a handful - there's plenty of protein to tide you over till dinner! You can also add M & M's for slight indulgence - M & M's are also now available in dark chocolate, which has a few more antioxidants as well as less sugar than milk chocolate

3.) Whole-grain Wheat Thins - Wheat Thins are long-lasting and can be found at almost any convenience store. Next time you stop to fill up gas in your car, go inside and buy a box of whole-grain Wheat Thins. They're a delicious alternative to deep-fried chips, as they will provide your body with good carbs to get through the day.

4.) String-cheese - String cheese is a great low-fat, high-calcium snack. It's very nature also forces you to enjoy it slowly, thus giving your body time to digest and send signals to your brain that you've had enough to eat. If you don't have access to a refridgerator, these can be kept in a drawer or purse for up to a couple of hours.

5.) Whole-grain Pretzels - Pretzels are convenient as they don't require refridgeration. However - choosing the wrong kind will only bring you empty calories. If you must have pretzels, though, go for whole grain and get creative. Dip in peanut butter, dark chocolate or cream cheese. A great brand of pretzels to try would be Herr's Assorted Whole Grain Pretzels - these contain flaxseed as a bonus, which can lower blood pressure and prevent heart disease.

6.) Nature Valley Granola bars - While granola bars carry valuable nutrition, most also contain just as much sugar and high fructose corn syrup as candy. One of the wisest choices I have come across is the Nature Valley Granola Bars, particularly the Oats 'n' Honey flavor. All Nature Valley packages come with two bars in them, but it's best to eat only one at a time - as each bar contains about 90 calories and 6 grams of fat.

7.) Canned tuna - If you're going to be out and about for awhile, you may want to take along an easy-to-open can of tuna. Look for light tuna that's canned in water, with reduced sodium. For less than 200 calories, you get a protein-packed snack that also contains niacin, phosphorus, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. You can eat straight out of the can, or make a sandwich with whole-grain bread. (Note: Mayonnaise is extremely high in calories and fat. If you absolutely must add mayo, add only a dallop. Keep in mind that a little goes a very long way - more mayonnaise does not mean more flavor.)

8.) Half a wheat bagel with cream cheese - Bagels are a convenient source of whole grains that can be found at any drive-through Starbucks. You can also add reduced or low-fat cream cheese - the fat it does have will keep you fuller longer. Eat one half at a time, then bag the rest and save it for tomorrow.

9.) 100% Fruit Smoothie - Fruits are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, combined with calcium from milk and low-fat yogurt. Many commercial smoothies use added sugar, corn syrup and artificial flavors, so be sure to look for a place that sells 100% fruit smoothies and displays their ingredients, such as Smoothie Factory or Froots. Another option is to make your own - put ice, low-fat plain yogurt, milk, and fruits of your choice (such as strawberry and banana, pineapple and orange, or whatever else strikes your fancy) into a blender. Blend for about two minutes or until smooth, then pour into water bottles or an on-the-go coffee mug.

Sources:

Fitness Magazine

TrustedBusinessAdvisor's Your Emergency Snack Kit

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