4 healthy on-the-go snacks for back-to-school

With back-to-school approaching all to quickly, there is still a lot left for students to prepare for. Once you're past creating the 'perfect' schedule, there's shopping for school supplies, back to school clothes, and making sure you get the most out of whatever you may have left of the summer.

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One thing I am always conscious of when thinking of back-to-school is making sure that I am properly fueling my body and my mind for the long days ahead. Working part-time while attending school full-time, I am often on the go running from one activity to the next left with little time for a sit down meal.

During the week I rely heavily on snacks to power me through my day and ensure I am getting a proper amount of calories and nutrients for my busy lifestyle.

Below are some of my favorite products that I often pack in my lunch box during the week for healthy and quick mid-day pick me ups that don't require refrigeration.

*Note: these are just suggestions and can be altered to fit your needs/dietary preference.

1. Dried Edamame 

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Edamame is naturally high in protein and fiber and also contain a balance of plant-based protein and carbohydrates.

The snack satisfies the craving for potato chips and desire for a crunchy snack without any added oils. It makes for the perfect snack for in-between classes or a unique way to dress up your salad at lunchtime. My favorite brand is cruncha ma me® original flavor (naked).This particular brand is also available in lightly seasoned, sea salt and black pepper, onion and chive, jalapeno, and savory sesame. Another favorite is SeaPoint Farms Dry Roasted Edamame in spicy wasabi. 

2. Chia beverages and squeezes 

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Our body needs Omega-3s to function properly. These can be found primarily in fish and those on a plant-based diet can also receive them from nuts. However, unless you are also taking supplements, it can be tricky to ensure you are getting a sufficient amount from diet alone.

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Mama Chia products pack a powerful nutritional punch with each drink offering 2500mg of Omega-3s, while also providing a healthy dose of protein, fiber, vitamin A and calcium. Mama Chia has a line of veggie and fruit flavors. Despite the label, you get more of the chia seed texture than any overpowering fruit or veggie flavor. If you've ever tried boba, it's along the same lines texture-wise. The chia seeds expand in liquid, which makes it taste more like a desert. 

If you'd rather have a snack than drink, the chia squeezes are another great option offering 1,200 mg of Omega-3's and come in a variety of flavors. 

These snacks are a clean and quiet option to satisfy hunger for those times when you're stomach starts to growl in the middle of class. 

(C): Amazon

(C): Amazon

3. Protein bars or shakes

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Protein bars or shakes are a great choice, because there is a lot of variety of what you can do with them. 

You can have a bar by itself, or for a more complete, balanced meal add a packet of peanut or almond butter with a banana.

Protein shakes can be mixed with any toppings you enjoy, and used as a meal replacement or for a tasty treat to sip throughout the day. This is also another great way to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet.

4. Dark chocolate:

Unlike many of the traditional chocolate bars offered in gas stations and check out lines, dark chocolate offers us many health benefits when consumed in moderation (one square 2-3x/week). These benefits include: lower blood pressure, improved blood flow to the brain and heart, which improves cognitive function, regulating blood sugar, and offers antioxidants.

Dark chocolates offering at least 70% cocoa provide the most benefits.


Question: What are some of your favorite snacks to pack for school or work? Which brands offer your favorite products?