With back to school and Fall activities we tend to snack more. Only this year is a little different because people are also mindful of the rising costs and are making some adjustments accordingly. In fact, Bankrate reports that 80% of Americans are changing travel plans due to inflation. Those on the go are looking for ways to make their travels more affordable, and one way they can do it is when it comes to snacking.
One way you can save money is when it comes to food. Not only are there affordable snacks that you can buy that are easy and healthy, but that will help keep the costs down. Dining out has become increasingly burdensome on most families’ pocketbooks, making easy and healthy snacking and meals on the go a great option.
Choosing the right snacks can be a game-changer for maintaining energy and overall health, but looks can be deceiving when it comes to nutrition. Many snacks marketed as “healthy,” like bran muffins and cereal bars, are actually loaded with hidden sugars and unhealthy fats. Even “fat-free” options can sneak in excess salt and sugar to make up for the flavor loss, which may ultimately do more harm than good. Knowing what to look for can help you enjoy satisfying, nourishing snacks that support your goals rather than derail them.
Here are some tips for keeping snacking on the go easy, healthy, and affordable:
- Keep easy, healthy snacks available at all times. These include fresh-cut veggies, fruit, dips, unsweetened applesauce cups, watermelon slices, and hummus. Also, have wraps available so that a quick wrap can be made, adding hummus and veggies.
- Have a dry snack bin that will not need to be refrigerated. These items can be taken along and consumed whenever needed. Things to add to the bin include small containers of trail mix, nuts, pumpkin seeds, dried fruit, healthy granola bars, and jerky.
- Save money on drinks on the go by keeping refillable drink containers that can be used. Opt for water or unsweetened teas to keep them healthy and affordable.
- Remember that eating healthier during the day, including meals and snacks, will help keep everyone from being so hungry. Healthy food contains more fiber and nutrients, so it’s more likely to satiate everyone, which will help keep the costs down.
- Snack mindfully. Don’t eat your snack while doing something else — like surfing the Internet, watching TV, or working at your desk. Instead, stop what you’re doing for a few minutes and eat your snack like you would a small meal.
Making a goal to incorporate these things will go a long way toward helping to make it more affordable, healthier, and fill you with energy. Done right, snacking is a tool for meeting your nutritional needs, whether you’re trying to lose weight, build muscle, or stay at a healthy weight. Eating snacks throughout the day can help you maintain steady energy, eat more balanced portions during meals, refuel after a workout, and regulate your blood sugar.
