Solution:

With any snack, it is important that there is a proper blend of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. The protein in our snacks will help to repair our muscles and maintain our immune system.   The carbohydrates in our snack will give us energy to use throughout the day, and the fats in our snack will help to keep us full until our next meal. Keeping this in mind, here are some good snack ideas:

Morning Snack: Include a mid-morning snack to take the edge off of your hunger before lunch. This snack doesn’t have to be big. If you skipped your morning fruit, have it now. If you need to boost your energy, have a fruit-protein-carbohydrate combo.

Examples:

• Apple, 1 tablespoon peanut butter and crackers
• Half a protein bar and piece of fruit
• Leftover breakfast protein drink and some crackers
• Piece of fruit and a hard-boiled egg
• One or two slices of lunch meat and a piece of fruit

Afternoon Snack: You should be hungry three to four hours after lunch. You need a snack here so you don’t eat a huge dinner. Also, if you are planning a pre-dinner workout, or even just spending some fun time with your family, a snack here is imperative for good afternoon energy and mood.

Energy Snacks:

• Nuts!  Peanuts, pistachios, walnuts, almonds…all are good choices.  The hardest part is stopping at an ounce-think shot glass size.
• Hard boiled egg.
• Turkey jerky, cover the size of your palm for a good serving size.
• Apple and peanut butter.
• Water: dehydration can exhaust your body.

Information provided by Deborah Enos Certified Nutritionist