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Here's What Nutrition Gurus Snack On When in a Hurry

Registered dietitians share the snacks they reach for when they're hangry
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Fruit With Nut Butter
For a snack that you can easily tote around in your purse or down in a rush before heading to yet another brainstorm, Tannenbaum suggests thinking ahead and packing a smart combo of fruit and nut butter. While apple, pear or peach slices are a no-brainer, she adds that dried figs can also be a nice compliment to two tablespoons of almond butter. "This snack provides you with heart-healthy fat, protein, fiber and lots of vitamin C and iron, depending on what fruit you are choosing," she explains.

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Cottage Cheese and a Banana
You've probably heard (or experienced) the simple truth that opposites attract. This snack is proof of this idiom, according to Tannenbaum. If you can stomach the odd combination, you'll be giving your body high-quality protein, vitamin D, calcium, vitamin B6 and potassium, all of which work in harmony to keep you feeling satisfied up until your dinner reservation.

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Pistachios
While almonds often get a lot of credit for being the health nut, Gorin reminds not to discount pistachios. "The nuts provide a trio of protein, healthy fats and fiber to help keep you full," she explains. "When I snack on these, I feel satisfied and avoid getting that hangry feeling." Another fun reason to give these salty superstars? Gorin says the act of shelling the pistachios is calming for a mental health break, too. She usually reaches for the 100-calorie packs of Wonderful Pistachios, with a special affection for the Sweet Chili flavor.

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Larabar
When you're picking a bar that's fit to be a go-to snack, Bowers says to check the back label in search for simple, wholesome ingredients. One that gets her professional recommendation is Larabar, made of only nutrient-rich foods. Her taste buds currently lean toward the Strawberry Spinach Cashew flavor, which has exactly what the name implies: spinach, cashews, strawberries, apricots and flavors. It boasts an impressive four grams of fiber. Munch on one before meeting your friends for happy hour, so you're not tempted by half-off chili cheese fries.

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DIY Trail Mix
Passing through the pharmacy to refill your birth control and hear your tummy growling? You might be tempted to buy a quick pre-packaged trail mix, but Arenas says making your own in bulk is not only more cost-effective, but more nutritionally sound. "Keep a variety of raw nuts and dried fruit at home as well as cacao nibs and/or unsweetened coconut flakes," she suggests. "Raw nuts contain plant-based protein and essential fatty acids for optimal heart health and energy without a sugar crash. Perfect to keep in your purse, car or gym bag!"

Arenas says when you're meal prepping, add one extra step and piece together a variety of trail mixes in 3 to 4 bags with 1/2 cup serving in each. Just be mindful you don't overdo the sugar, ensuring you only have two tablespoons of dried fruit, coconut or cacao.

Image via Getty

BY LINDSAY TIGAR | AUG 4, 2017 | SHARES
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