Eating healthy as a healthcare professional on the go can be a challenge, especially during those long shifts. But when you’re busy caring for others, it’s just as important to take care of yourself. Fueling your body with nutritious snacks can help prevent burnout, keep your energy up, and ensure you’re performing at your best. To help you snack well and keep your energy up, here is a list of 10 healthy snacks that are both simple and convenient to enjoy throughout your day.
Apples with Peanut Butter
Apples contain a whole slew of vitamins (A, B1, B2, B6, C, K, copper, manganese and potassium), are high in fiber, and are just good for your health in general. Peanut butter is protein rich, high in healthy fats, and chocked full of vitamins and minerals. A quick apple and peanut butter snack will help fill you up and give you an energy boost to get you through your shift.
Chickpeas
Chickpeas are packed full of protein, fiber, and potassium. In addition to filling you up, they can help control diabetes and blood pressure. Along with all the other nutrients, the iron and calcium in chickpeas contribute to bone health. Roasted chickpeas are an easy way to get your snack fix.
Trail Mix
This delightfully tasty mix of dried fruits, nuts, chocolate and grains. Buy pre-packaged or create your own that is tailored to your tastes. The protein in the fruits and nuts will help fill you up and give you an energy boost while the chocolate can help satisfy your sweet tooth. Add in some roasted chickpeas. It is important to remember to eat your trail mix in moderation. Trail mixes are high in calories. Remember, too much of anything is not a good thing.
Jerky
Made from beef, chicken, or turkey, jerky is a quick portable snack that’s loaded with protein. Just make sure if you are buying jerky, that you check for added sugars or salt.
Greek Yogurt
A single-serving of Greek yogurt packs a lot of protein into a small container. Add in berries packed with lots of nutrients and fiber to help fill you up and aid in your digestion. The calcium in yogurt is another boost for your bone health.
Pumpkin Seeds
No access to the fridge? No problem. Keep a little packet of pumpkin seeds for a quick snack. Just a ⅔ cup can give you 8 grams of protein. They are also loaded with fiber, vitamin k, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper and lots of antioxidants among others. Studies have shown that diets rich in pumpkin seeds have been associated with reducing the risk of certain cancers, improving prostate, bladder and heart health, as well as lowering blood sugar levels. And this amazing snack does not require refrigeration.
Almonds
Almonds, too, are loaded with nutrients even in just a small handful. They are high in protein and fiber and low in carbs, making them a great option if you have diabetes. Packed with magnesium – almost half your daily requirements in just one serving, almonds can assist with blood sugar control and benefit blood pressure levels. Plus, they fill you up.
Cheesy Popcorn
Popcorn alone is a yummy, easy snack that will help fill you up. But, give yourself an energy boost by adding on some parmesan cheese for protein.
String Cheese
It’s hard to believe that nutritionists will approve processed food, but string cheese actually makes their list. String cheese provides you carbs and protein for energy and calcium for strong bones. Add veggie sticks or fruit to your snack for an extra boost.
Veggie Sticks
No list of healthy snacks would be complete without veggie sticks. Pack yourself a handful of carrot and celery sticks. Snack on them with peanut butter or yogurt for a protein boost. These veggies are loaded with antioxidants, potassium and numerous other vitamins and minerals.
Remember, making small, healthy choices throughout the day can have a big impact on how you feel. Keep these snacks handy to help you power through your shift with sustained energy, while also supporting your overall health. Your well-being matters just as much as the patients you care for!
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