The holiday is over. It’s back to the grind. It’s impossible to eat healthy when you’re working long days unless you plan in advance. Research suggests eating every four hours keeps your metabolism super charged but that doesn’t mean you rush out to pick up a packet of chips and chocolate.
Check out these eight low-calorie, healthy office snacks, with 200 calories or less, perfect to tackle the 3 p.m. sugar low.
Whole Wheat Bread and Peanut Butter
Try two small slices of whole wheat bread and one tablespoon of crunchy peanut butter. This power-packed, delicious snack has 190 calories and the perfect combination of complex carbs and protein to keep your blood sugar stable and keep you feeling full longer..
Fruit and Yogurt
Carry a fruit—apple, banana or pear—in your bag for a variety of nutrients and healthy dose of fiber and just 70-80 calories a pop. Throw in a bowl of low fat dahi for a protein boost and extra calcium and Vitamin D. The protein-fiber combination will keep you full for hours. Just what the doctor ordered!
Popcorn
We’re not talking about the microwavable variety. Air pop a small handful of popcorn at home and carry a Ziploc bag worth to work. Did you know 3 cups of popcorn has just 100 calories? Did you also know popcorn is a whole grain? Sprinkle some chaat masala or salt for a healthy, tasty snack. Chomp on!
Go Nuts
If you’re craving crunch think nuts not biscuits or chips. Nuts are rich in heart-healthy fats though they do pack a bunch of calories (about 170 calories for 24 almonds) so measure out a small handful and squirrel away in your desk drawer to nibble on. Nuts are a great source of Vitamin E, Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, protein and fiber.
Bowl of Oats
Rushing to work and no time for breakfast? The last thing you should do is grab a vada pav or sambar vada. Dig into a bowlful of heart healthy, cholesterol lowering goodness instead. A bowl of quick cook oats! Simply microwave four tablespoons of white oats with some water, add skimmed milk and cinnamon, raisins or honey for a delicious, wholesome meal at just 150 calories. The best part, you can have it as a snack any time of day as well.
Hummus with Veggies
Make your own or choose your favorite brand. Hummus made from chickpeas is an excellent source of fiber and protein. Two tablespoon of hummus and one sliced carrot or cucumber is just 100 calories. The fiber-protein combo will keep you full for hours.
Veggies with Yoghurt Dip
Whip up some herbs, salt and pepper in 200 grams hung yogurt. Slice up some carrots, bell peppers, zucchini and cucumber and dig in! Raw veggies will fill you up thanks to their high fiber and water content. Total calories 150.
Eggs that Pack a Punch
Let’s not leave good old hard boiled eggs. Carry along two hard boiled eggs. Dab them with a mix of mustard, ketchup and pepper for a spicy 140 calorie, protein packed snack. And no, the yolk is NOT bad for your cholesterol.
