Whole foods are usually my go-to when I need a snack. My fridge is always fully stocked with apples [1] 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 [2] 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 [3] 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 [4]. 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 [5] ($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 [6] ($27 for six). They satisfy my sweet tooth and only have three ingredients: organic coconut [7], sprouted sesame seeds, and dates.
Jilz Crackerz
Jilz Crackerz [8] ($13), especially the Original version, are loaded with flavor, Paleo [9], 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 [10] for the week, I like using Purely Elizabeth Ancient Grain Granola [11] ($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 [12] at home, so it's great to get my greens in by purchasing ready-made juices. I love Suja Organic Cold-Pressed Juice [13] ($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.