These are some of my favorite high quality, clean snacks to take on-the-go. I usually like to eat enough at substantial, nutrient-dense meals to not need a snack, but sometimes my schedule isn’t so perfect, and maybe I didn’t get a chance to grab lunch, or my lunch was really early and I have a late dinner planned, or I’m stuck in traffic – all of these instances call for a snack (in my opinion). I consider myself somewhat of a connoisseur of great healthy snacks because I love them! I seek out healthy, filling, tasty, energizing, clean snacks that will keep me fueled for my long days. Read more below about why I picked each snack above in the photo.
(All food was supplied by Melissa’s Produce. Check out their home-delivery service for a super-convenient way to get fresh, organic, and seasonal fruits, vegetables, and snacks delivered to your home! Use my code ACTIONJAC for 20% any purchase off their website!!)
1. Carrots: Wash, peel and go. Carrots are a great snack because of the hardy crunch – sometimes it just feels good to nosh on something crunchy, and when you get to nosh on something that won’t make you feel guilty and will fuel your body, then it’s a win-win. Carrots are most known for their high content of Vitamin A, which helps support eye vision. Vitamin A comes from beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in your liver. Studies have shown that carrots also have anti-inflammatory properties and are even stronger than drugs like Ibuprofen, and Asprin. (sourced from Dr. Mercola) Powerful studies like this is a good reminder to nourish and fuel your body with organic, natural foods.
2. Coconut meat: One of my favorites! You can scoop it directly out of a baby coconut and store in a glass container, or purchase pre-cut coconut meat at your local natural health food market. You can eat it plain, blended in a smoothie, or lightly shaved on top of a salad. Why coconut meat? Because it is filling, due to the saturated fats from the medium chain fatty acids (the good kind of fat), and the high fiber content. One cup of coconut meat contains 283 calories, 23.8g of saturated fat, 7.2g of fiber, trace minerals, and 5g of naturally occurring sugar. After a few bites, your cravings will quickly diminish!
3. Grapes: They taste great, and have that irresistible crunch that curbs any snacking cravings. Most notably, grapes are high in insoluble fiber, meaning that it remains intact and builds up bulk as it moves through the digestive tract. This helps if you suffer from constipation, as the bulk supports in the formation and excretion of healthy stools. If you suffer from loose stools then it is not recommended to use grapes as a way to regulate your system, as it doesn’t soak up water. One cup of grapes has 104 calories, 1 g protein, almost 0 fat, and 1.5 g fiber. Grapes are also high in water content, so they may be good for hydration. Pop a few grapes in your mouth for a pick-me-up and you’re good to go!
4. Melissa’s new Clean Snax: Each bundle contains nutrient-packed chia and flaxseed, flavored with natural honey and salt. Put a couple in your purse and you are set for your healthy snack when you’re stuck in traffic. These snacks are gluten free and contain no artificial ingredients. Comes in four tasty mixes: Almond, Pumpkin Seed, Coconut and Cranberry.
5. Apricots: Individual bite size apricots are such a treat during the summer months. The bittersweet and smooth texture of the apricot makes it hard to resist. I love popping a few of these in a baggie and taking them with me for my day. They are high in fiber and vitamin antioxidants, such as Vitamin A and C. One apricot has 17 calories, and 3 g of sugar. Avoid dried apricots, as they are usually loaded with added sugars. Eat them whole, or try slicing them and leave in the freezer – the natural sugars surface and they taste AMAZING!! They are so naturally sweet and delicious that you swear someone snuck into your freezer and poured sugar on them when you weren’t looking.
All food was supplied by Melissa’s Produce. Check out their home-delivery service for a super-convenient way to get fresh, organic, and seasonal fruits, vegetables, and snacks delivered to your home! Use my code ACTIONJAC for 20% any purchase off their website!!
