It’s afternoon, you forgot to pack a snack and that candy bar in the vending machine is sweetly calling your name. Whether you’re at work or stuck after school, sometimes the vending machine is the only option.
Whole-Grain Goodies
Whole grains are a good source of fiber that will keep you fuller, longer. Packaged chips and cookies, not surprisingly, have no whole grains and higher amounts of calories, sugar and unhealthy fats. If you’re in the mood for something crunchy, choose whole-grain pretzels, crackers or a dry cereal.
Hunger-Fighting Healthy Fats
Just like higher-fiber foods, snacks with healthy fats take longer to digest so they keep you satisfied. Dry roasted nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews are the way to go. Peanut butter crackers can be okay but be mindful of your munching. You may only need to eat half the package to satisfy yourself (save the rest for tomorrow).
Granola Bars
Most every vending machine has some kind of granola bar as the “healthy” go-to. Pick ones without chocolate or candy pieces to keep the sugar and calories on the lower end
Dried Fruit
Need sweets? Dried fruit is a way to dull that sweet-tooth ache. Often you’ll find packs of real dried fruit like raisins or cranberries that are mixed with nuts or seeds (like in a trail mix). If you’re counting calories, remember to read the nutrition label closely — sometimes a packet might have two servings.
Sip Smart
If you’re hitting up the drink machine too, think calorie-free choices. (The only exception might be the occasional 100% fruit juice.) Opt for water or seltzer over sugary sodas, energy drinks and iced teas or lemonades. Diet beverages are also an option but they do contain artificial sweeteners; only reply on them occasionally.
Focus on Protein
Protein-rich snacks have staying power in your tummy, which can help keep you from overeating between meals. Protein is a big focus for dieters and healthy eaters because when you include it in a meal or snack, it helps you feel satiated. And any food that can keep you feeling fuller and longer, gets a thumbs-up. Jerky, meat sticks, hard-boiled eggs are all options to look for in a snack.