Apart from being asleep, work consumes most of our 24 hour day, which means we have to be smart about what we are doing during those typical 9 hours of work. The main problem with working is trying to stay healthy, full, and focused. We all know those deadlines can keep us out late or those slow days seem like they are never going to end, so how can we manage our work while staying focused and healthy?
Snacking is a great distraction and necessity to keep you energy high, only if you’re doing it right! This means that donuts, candy, and chips are NOT doing it right. Sorry! You also need to keep snacking light, an entire bag of nuts is not considered healthy! On top of snacking, drinking a lot of water throughout the day tricks your body into being full and if you add citrus to that water, it actively burns fat while you sit at the computer. Here is a list of great substitutes for snacking that still taste great but are healthy and packed full of protein and energy!
Hummus
Hummus is packed full vitamin B6 and folate, which basically means energy! Beans and peas are naturally full of protein as well so every little bite gives you a healthy full feeling while leaving full of energy and life. Hummus is also easy to bring to work and perfect for dipping into with carrots, celery, or whole wheat crackers.
Nuts
Nuts are usually the first on every list for good snacking, and for good reason! These little pops of necessary fat and protein are perfect for that boost you need at 2pm. Certain nuts are worse for you than others so I suggest sticking to walnuts, pistachios, and almonds. Also, try not to get ready salted ones – too much salt will make you feel bloated and may cause you to feel tired.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is probably the greatest thing ever made. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and salty and tastes great on just about everything. You must be careful with peanut butter though as it does have a bit too much sugar and fat to eat the whole tub. Make sure to limit yourself to a tablespoon during snacking. Add it to crackers, apples and even dark chocolate for a quick boost.
Edamame
Edamame is a super food that is slowly taking over the world! Each crunchy little soy bean has tons of vitamins that boost your body and keeps you full and focused. Edamame comes either in the pod, or deseeded and ready to eat. Adding a little touch of salt brings out the great flavor, or if you have time at home, quickly sauté in the morning with some spicy garlic or Thai chili for an extra pop of flavor while munching away at work.
Dark Chocolate
That’s right, dark chocolate is great for healthy snacking at work! The richness in the cocoa is a super food for the body and is actually a perfect snack. That being said, only true dark chocolate is good for you, milk chocolate is pure dairy and sugar so watch what you’re buying! For an extra added energy boost, get yourself some dark chocolate covered espresso beans, which will definitely get you going! Be sure to limit yourself on this snack too!
