10 Healthy Snacks for On-The-Go Moms!

Every time  I open my email, I swear it is another email on healthy snacks or lunches for the kids.  But what about moms?  As the school year begins, moms spend more time in the car and away from home.  This can add an element of difficulty to maintaining that healthy diet you have been working on so hard this summer.  But it does not have to.  The most important thing is to be prepared!

The worst thing to do is to let yourself become hungry.  Not the hunger that is subtle, that you could wait out, but that hunger that creeps into your body and takes over, forcing you to eat whatever is around.  Kids sporting events and dance recitals usually have bake sales and other “not healthy” snack options and can be any easy place to let the diet go hay wire.  The trick is to keep healthy snack options on you at all times so you can satisfy your hunger and not derail your diet.  Also, remember to eat something every three to four hours.  This will not only keep your metabolism fired but also will keep your energy high and your hunger at bay.

So what are some snacks that are easy to keep in the car or in your purse. Here is a list of my 10 favorite snacks for moms!

1. EAS protein shakes – Now these are the 100 cal ones, that have 17 grams of protein and will keep you satisfied. The trick is to not refrigerate them. Throw one in your purse and when you find the hunger pains starting, pour it in a plastic cup with ice.
2. Think Thin Bar Bites – These are 100 cals, taste great, have no sugar, and have 6 grams of protein! Also are Gluten Free!
3. Slice an apple and place it in a Ziploc. Then take two tbls of peanut or almond butter and put in the smallest container. When your watching your kids play sports you have a great healthy snack option.
4. Gnu flavor & fiber bars – These are fantastic. 7 different flavors and 12 grams of fiber. I often eat half as a snack in the am and the other half as an afternoon snack. You have to order them online but they are worth every penny!
5. Trail mix– Make your own. This way you control the ingredients and customize it to your tastes. Start by picking 3 foods you enjoy. For example, almonds, dark chocolate, and 365 rice chex cereal. Divide it into small baggies and take one when you head out the door!
6. Dried Fruit – Apricots, apples, or raisins. Make sure you buy the pre packaged small bags or as soon as you get home divide them up. Dried fruit is fine in moderation.
7. Soy Crisps – They have a higher protein content than normal chips plus are very low in fat and calories.  Before you leave, grab a handful and place in a Ziploc bag. They are great to munch on when the hunger strikes.
8. Veggie or turkey jerky – These can be high in sodium but some brands offer lower sodium options. Buy the small bags. This snack offers lots of lean protein!
9. Fruit – I always have an orange, apple, or banana in my bag.  It is the best snack for when your blood sugar is running low and you need something to just hold you over until you get home.
10. Homemade Protein Bars – Yes my favorite! They are so easy to make and the kids will enjoy them as well. Wrap one up and throw it in your bag, it will do just the trick!

The main thing is to be prepared.  Even if you are not hungry when you leave the house, please take something with you.  It is so easy to get side tracked when the school year starts.  Do something for yourself and start snacking right! Enjoy