Nutritionist's Favorite Healthy Snacks
I'm a Holistic Nutritionist, and These Are 5 Snacks I Always Keep on Hand
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Whole foods are usually my go-to when I need a snack. My fridge is always fully stocked with apples and almond or peanut butter as well as ready-to-eat veggies like cucumbers and bell peppers. But even as a holistic nutritionist, I have days when I just need a little something different.
Case in point: this morning I was running out the door to the gym and realized I needed to eat something for sustenance during my HIIT session. I didn't have time to cut an apple or scoop out some almond butter, so I reached for a wholesome bar chock-full of ingredients like nuts, dates, and superfoods to keep me energized during my class.
Contrary to popular belief, holistic nutritionists buy snacks too. In fact, I have pantries and cupboards in my house dedicated to snacks. But because I focus on whole foods that are going to nourish my body, ingredients are super important to me.
I stay away from refined sugars, white flour, preservatives, most oils, and additives when I look for snacks that I'm going to be eating often — "often" being the operative word here. I have my food vices just like everyone else and find no harm in indulging in something delicious and decadent every once in a while.
But I'm pickier with my daily snacks. Those are meant for fuel and nourishment, and I feel better overall supplying my body with what it needs. So when I'm not making my own food, these are the five snacks I always keep on hand.
Brad's Crunchy Kale Chips
These are by far my favorite kale chips. Most of the others I've found at grocery stores contain sugar or other ingredients I'm not a fan of, but these don't. I love making them at home, too, but Brad's Crunchy Kale Chips ($28 for three) are perfect for when I don't have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. They're air-dried and never baked or fried, making them a healthier alternative to most chips. My favorite has to be the Nacho flavor, which tastes like cheese while being completely plant-based and dairy-free.
Go Raw Sweet Crunch Sprouted Cookies
When I need something sweet after a meal (especially dinner . . . anyone else?), I always reach for a couple of these Go Raw Sweet Crunch Sprouted Cookies ($27 for six). They satisfy my sweet tooth and only have three ingredients: organic coconut, sprouted sesame seeds, and dates.
Jilz Crackerz
Jilz Crackerz ($13), especially the Original version, are loaded with flavor, Paleo, and organic. I eat them with salsa, nut butters, or plain whenever I need something a little salty. Or, let's be honest, more often when I'm super hungry and cooking dinner and really need a snack to hold me over. These crackers do just that and are super satisfying too.
Purely Elizabeth Ancient Grain Granola
This one's more of a treat, but if I haven't made my granola for the week, I like using Purely Elizabeth Ancient Grain Granola ($5) as a smoothie bowl topping or in my almond milk. This version includes ingredients like coconut sugar instead of cane sugar, chia seeds, cinnamon, and whole grains like gluten-free oats, amaranth, millet, and quinoa.
Suja Juices
I don't have a juicer at home, so it's great to get my greens in by purchasing ready-made juices. I love Suja Organic Cold-Pressed Juice ($119 for 20) because it doesn't contain a lot of sugar and is loaded with greens. I tend to only drink juices when I really don't feel like throwing a smoothie together since juices strip away fiber, but they're great for adding more greens to your diet and for when you need something refreshing.
