It’s not just about office goers; anyone held up in multiple tasks, mainly when the task demands timely delivery, is prone to missing out on their meals. It has been seen that most people skip breakfast, which is the most important meal of the day. Mainly, women, whether homemakers or professionals, miss their first meal of the day, which impacts nutritional requirements. Healthy snacks at work are a must-have for busy office workers. Snacking healthy is a way to have an active and productive day. Your body should not suffer due to work, nor should your work suffer due to your health.
At the same time, sometimes your big meals don't give you enough nutrition and satisfaction. For such situations, make sure your desk or rack is stocked with something tasty and convenient to hold you over until your next meal.
With these diverse snacking options, bring the joy of fresh, healthy snacks to your workplace. Here’s a list of 11 healthy snacks at work to keep at your desk;
Nuts and seeds
We have to top the list with crunchy nuts. Choosing to snack on nuts may help you maintain weight, nutritional and a heart-healthy diet, because studies have shown that they lower the low-density lipoprotein or bad cholesterol levels. Also the shelf life is longer thus you can store it. Sometimes you can have soaked nuts while sometimes the fried ones with pepper. Seeds make the ideal nutritious work snack. These little nutritious powerhouses are packed with fibre that is easy to digest, plant-based protein, healthy fats, and minerals. They go well with many different dishes, or you may eat them on their own. Sunflower seeds, roasted flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds are some of the yummy ones.
Sprouts
Sprouts are stores of different macro- and micronutrients. They can be consumed plain with salt and pepper, fried with chillies and onions, or a yummy salad made out of them. You can buy sprouts of lentils, moong beans, kidney beans, fenugreek, peas, chickpeas, alfalfa, etc.
Veggies and Fruits
Plenty of vegetables and fruits can be part of your mini-meal. Make a stew, a soup, a boil, or a salad—anything can satisfy your taste buds, stomach, and nutritional needs. You can pick a seasonal fruit or an all-time good banana during the day breaks.
Oatmeal
Oats have high levels of fibre and iron. But the fibre is what makes muesli such an excellent office snack; fibre fills you up quickly. This implies you'll probably have to eat less. Oats may sound boring, but you can make them interesting with some quick recipes like oat cutlets,mixtures, poha, cake, etc.
Makhana
Roasted makhana alone or with roasted peanuts can be a really nutritious snack in between a tiring work hour. Makhana is a good source of calcium and also gives energy. Whereas peanuts contain fiber, protein and a range of vitamins and minerals.
Chickpeas
A fantastic source of fibre and protein that is both gluten-free and vegan is chickpeas. They are also exceptionally high in magnesium, vitamin B-6, and iron. It's much easier to eat them as a desk snack at work if you roast them at home.
Murmura or Puffed rice
A very common crunch snack that is light and safe. Murmura sev is a favourite snack item, but there are many other snacks prepared with puffed rice. Murmura, or puffed rice, is high in carbohydrates and acts as an energy source. It also contains insoluble fibres and proteins. Diabetics can have puffed rice as a snack in moderation.
Smoothie
Let's take a break for a smoothie! Smoothies with entire foods including fruits, vegetables, yoghurt, and healthy fats are the healthiest. Be sure there is less or no sugar in your smoothie. Instead of using refined sugar, you might use honey or dates syrup. Protein and fiber-rich smoothies can even help you lose weight by keeping you satisfied.
Granola and Health Bars
Expensive snacks but extensively healthy. Granola and health bars are made with various healthy ingredients and give you a circle of nutrients. They are also sold as energy bars. Read the ingredients carefully and make a purchase.
Dark chocolates
Nutrient-rich dark chocolate can help you stay healthier. One of the world's richest sources of antioxidants, it is made from the seed of the cocoa tree. It can enhance well-being and reduce the risk of heart disease, according to studies. Healthy snacks at work are a decent solution to manage nutritional needs, feel energetic, and compensate for missed meals.