With health experts around the world urging people to stay at home, more employees than ever are working remotely. Being outside of your normal routine, paired with the boredom from being confined to your home, can certainly lead to snack cravings. Before reaching for a snack, it’s a good idea to stop and ask yourself why you’re heading toward the kitchen. Are you really hungry or is something else going on? If you’re bored, try to think of another activity to keep your brain active. A quick walk outside, some stretching, or giving yourself 10 minutes to pick up a book or magazine may be all it takes. If you do find that you're hungry, snacking can give you the energy you need until it’s time for your next meal. You can also use snacks to fit in extra servings of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and proteins. Aim to include at least two food groups in your snacks for maximum staying power. Keep in mind that where you snack can also play a role in how satisfying it is. Many people tend to stand in the kitchen and grab whatever is convenient, often eating right from the box. This mindless snacking makes it difficult to know how much you’ve eaten and often leads to over-eating without realizing it. The next time you snack, try putting your food on a plate and sitting down to enjoy it mindfully. The next time you find yourself heading toward the kitchen, try some of the healthy snack ideas below:
¼ cup nuts with ¼ cup dried fruit
6 ounces yogurt with sliced fruit
1 serving whole grain crackers with cheese slices or hummus
Sliced vegetables with hummus
Small smoothie made with 1 cup of fruit and milk or a milk alternative
1 slice whole grain bread with mashed avocado, or roasted turkey or chicken
Raw vegetables with hummus or yogurt-based dressing
Banana or carrots and celery with all-natural nut butter
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