GET FREE SAMPLES

sign up for our newsletter to get free sample alerts

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

Registered dietitians share the snacks they reach for when they're hangry
Photo 4/15
Greek Yogurt
Especially if you're recovering from a cold or were on antibiotics and you're just getting into the swing of your routine again, grabbing a container of plain Greek yogurt will curb hunger pangs and assist in getting you back to top-notch health. Registered dietitian Cara Walsh from Medifast Weight Control Center of California explains a single cup of Greek yogurt is an all-star source of protein, calcium, zinc, potassium, vitamin B6 and B12. Compared to other yogurt varieties, Greek yogurt also has three times the amount of protein, meaning it'll keep you sated for much longer. "It's also an ideal food to help you lose weight. It will leave you feeling full longer and help you avoid sugar and carbohydrate crashes," she says. Our pick: Fage Total 2%.

Photo 5/15
Paprika Spiced Popcorn
If you like a side of crunch with your snacks, Paula Simpson, holistic nutritionist and co-founder of Zea Skin Solutions says popcorn isn't at all a bad choice for a quick snack, especially if you add some spice to the kernels. "Popcorn with paprika and sea salt makes a great mid-afternoon snack when energy levels are down and cravings are up," she says. "Paprika contains carotenoid antioxidant zeaxanthin, an important antioxidant that has been clinically shown to support eye and skin health." Another smart option is cayenne pepper, which Simpson says has capsaicin, a nutrient that's been show to support a healthy metabolism.

Image via bamco.com

Photo 6/15
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zing Bars
It always happens: you're trying to lose a few pounds and you sadly watch as your co-workers sneak out at 2pm. for an ice cream break. To join in on the fun, without the added calories, registered dietitian Jennifer Bowers, PhD, RD, suggests indulging in a healthy but sweet-tooth approved Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zing Bar. "These yummy bars taste like a cookie, but contain the perfect mix of complex carbs, vegan-based protein and fiber," she says. "They satisfy hunger and keep you satisfied all afternoon. They're also developed by registered dietitians."

Photo 7/15
Overnight Oats
If your idea of cooking is throwing a handful of this-and-that into a Crockpot and calling it good, you need a snack that's equally low maintenance. Registered dietitian Bridget Swinney, MS, RD recommends making overnight oats [Get the recipe here] in conveniently portable single-serving canning jars. Try these half-pint ones on Amazon .

Not only is this a quick and easy feat for those who are less inclined to cook, chop or bake, but Swinney adds overnight oats also give you a boost of protein, calcium and potassium.

Image via familyfoodonthetable.com

Photo 8/15
Shanti Bars
Instead of the questionable ingredients and fillers that are often found on the back of many quick-grab snacks, Arenas recommends these raw, vegan protein winners that have a whopping 17 grams of plant-based protein. While she likes Shanti Bars as a whole, her go-to flavor is Recover. "It contains turmeric for anti-inflammatory properties, cardamom to aid in digestion, chia and hemp seeds to boost your calcium and omega-3 intake," she explains. This type of snack is ideal post-workout to help settle your stomach, while also encouraging your body to release tension, build muscle and continue the endorphin high.

BY LINDSAY TIGAR | AUG 4, 2017 | SHARES
VIEW COMMENTS
Full Site | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy
TotalBeauty is a property of Evolve Media Holdings, LLC. © 2024 All Rights Reserved. | Affiliate Disclosure: Evolve Media Holdings, LLC, and its owned and operated subsidiaries may receive a small commission from the proceeds of any product(s) sold through affiliate and direct partner links.