When your boss calls a meeting just as you head out for lunch or that afternoon break feels like a thing of the past, it\u2019s time for a snack. You need a satisfying boost of energy to get you through the workday, so it’s important to make sure you’re avoiding snacks that’ll make you feel sluggish later on.<\/p>\n
To help you out, we asked registered dietitian nutritionists for their best office snack recommendations.<\/p>\n
Pumpkin seeds<\/strong> Roasted almonds<\/strong> Dehydrated veggies<\/strong> Whole food bars<\/b> Dietitian Bailee Hart<\/a>\u00a0appreciates RXBAR for the \u201cshort list of all-natural, whole-food ingredients.\u201d She continues, \u201cThey are naturally sweetened, high in fiber, and a good source of protein. [They’re] great to have when cravings and hunger strike.\u201d<\/p>\n Nut and seed bars<\/strong> Peanut butter<\/strong>
\nRegistered dietitian Jenn Hanes<\/a> opts for roasted pumpkin seeds still in the shell. \u201cI like them for the protein, fiber, and healthy fat content,” she says. “They stay good for what seems like forever (I’ve never had them go bad) and it only takes half of a handful or so to feel satisfied and full. They also hold seasoning really well, so you can have different flavors and not get bored.\u201d<\/p>\n
\nIf you\u2019d rather go for nuts over seeds, registered dietitian nutritionist Kara Lydon<\/a> says, \u201cI love roasted almonds for an easy, grab and go snack with serious staying power. Almonds are a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fat.\u201d She adds, \u201cWhen compared ounce for ounce, almonds are the tree nut highest in protein, fiber, calcium, vitamin E, riboflavin, and niacin. These nutrient-rich nuts are extra tasty when roasted with pesto<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>\n
\nFor a healthy crunch packed with vitamins and fiber, Jennifer Hunt<\/a>, a registered dietitian nutritionist, stocks up on beet chips or dehydrated veggies (preferably without salt). “A bag of crunchy and sweet beet chips boasts seven grams of fiber, a nice dose of potassium, and a whole serving of veggies,” she says.<\/p>\n
\nNutrition bars are among the most shelf-stable snacks you\u2019ll find, but they vary widely in the health benefits they offer. Dietitian Jean Maxwell<\/a> weighs in with a vote for L\u00c4RABAR<\/a>. She says, \u201cThey have minimal ingredients and are made from whole foods (think dates and nuts). They are also vegan, gluten-free, grain-free, and soy-free, making them appropriate for many types of dietary restrictions.\u201d<\/p>\n
\n\u201cI always have some Primal Kitchen Collagen Nut and Seed Bars<\/a> stowed away in my desk,\u201d says dietitian Stephanie Wagner<\/a>. \u201cI like that they are made with simple ingredients and natural sweeteners. I can also count on them keeping me full as they contain some fiber and have a balanced macronutrient profile. Plus, I think the chewy texture keeps things interesting.\u201d<\/p>\n
\nDietitian Leanne Ray<\/a> is all about good ol\u2019 peanut butter. Ray says, “I love keeping it on hand for pairing with fruits or veggies, topping oatmeal, or just eating straight up when I need something quick and energizing.\u201d<\/p>\n