It’s sad but true: Not all snacks are created equal. Some are ideal for clean and easy on-the-go munching, while others are better at keeping you full between meals. Some foods have great nutritional value, while others may be more of a guilty pleasure.
Snacking while working is a common indulgence, especially for those who work from home, because there’s just something about a work-time snack stash that feels oh-so-satisfying. These are some of our favorite fast snacks for work, whether your desk is in the office or the living room.
Popcorn
Popcorn is one of the ultimate work-from-home snacks because of its versatility. You can make it over the stove, in the microwave, or in a designated air popper. Further, it’s the ultimate salty and sweet snack, whether you sprinkle it with salt, dark chocolate, or caramel. Having the ability to make your own popcorn by preparing dried kernels in a lunch-sized paper bag lets you be in control over your portion and flavoring, limiting your consumption of all the sodium that comes in bagged popcorn.
Apples & Peanut Butter
With a perfect balance between sweetness and refreshment, this classic snack combo is a definite winner. You’ll only need two ingredients, both of which you can keep directly on your desk if you so desire. Apple skin contains a chemical called quercetin, which has antioxidant properties that protect brain cells from chronic damage (via CNN). The protein from the peanut butter will help keep you full and focused, so your rumbling stomach will not distract you at the desk.
DIY the ultimate trail mix
This is one you can have fun with! Creating the perfect trail mix is all about using ingredients that both you and your body will love. The key to a healthy diet in any sense is moderation, so don’t hold back from treating yourself to a few M&Ms in the mix. Just add a few nuts, dried fruit, and pretzels to keep make sure you have an ample source of fiber and protein.
Greek Yogurt
Apart from being absolutely delicious and incredibly diverse, Greek yogurt is good for you, too. Whether you mix in some berries for breakfast or throw a dollop into a smoothie, your stomach will thank you. With up to billions of probiotics in each serving, Greek yogurt will promote digestive health, while its high calcium content keeps your teeth and bones strong.
Charcuterie board
This is one of our absolute favorite work-from-home snacks because it’s a choose-your-own-adventure snack time project. If you’re feeling a little fancy this week, make a presentable and delicious charcuterie tray to show off to your coworkers over Zoom. Meat, cheese, and nuts are all protein-packed, so this option is just as nutritious as it is fun. Don’t forget to save a few bites to pair with your drink of choice once you’re off for the day!
Veggies & Hummus
You’ve likely been hearing about the benefits of eating your vegetables since you were a kid, but did you know the hummus you dip it in is beneficial, too? This popular spread is made from mashed chickpeas, a legume rich in nutrients and high in protein. Pairing it with your favorite veggies will give you a boost of energy and prevent sluggishness during the workday.
Dark chocolate
Sweets aren’t always an unhealthy choice! The brain benefits from the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of flavonoids, a group of compounds present in cocoa, both in the short term and long term, so eating chocolate can preserve memory and promote oxygen flow to the brain.
Avocado toast
It’s not just for Instagram photos and hip cafés! Avocado toast has many great health benefits, especially when you opt for whole wheat rather than white or refined grains. Fiber from the toast and healthy fats from the avocado will help keep you full throughout the day so you won’t have to keep leaving your desk for empty, non-filling snacks. Be sure to switch up the toppings too, to craft a snack you’ll never get bored of.
Building the perfect snack just takes some time and experimenting, but you’ll find your new favorites in no time. Start with this list and branch out as you feel inspired! Even a quick browse through your local supermarket can get your creative juices flowing. There are so many snacks and ingredients you can keep right on your desk, including fresh produce. The possibilities are only limited by the boundaries of your imagination. What other work-time concoctions can you come up with?
BlissMark provides information regarding health, wellness, and beauty. The information within this article is not intended to be medical advice. Before starting any diet or exercise routine, consult your physician. If you don’t have a primary care physician, the United States Health & Human Services department has a free online tool that can help you locate a clinic in your area. We are not medical professionals, have not verified or vetted any programs, and in no way intend our content to be anything more than informative and inspiring.
