A professor at Purdue University recently found that the number of calories Americans consume as snacks has increased to 580 calories per day, which is roughly the equivalent of a fourth meal. But, when you're stuck at your desk and can't escape for a healthy green alternative, you're often left with no other choice but to betray your recently declared diet.
Instead of heading to the office snack machine, usually filled with nothing but bad choices, make the most out of your bite break and indulge in any of the five options below. Stick to one of these, and you can rack up on snacks instead of calories.
1). Alchemy Pops
These frozen pops are a refreshing alternative compared to an everyday office snack. Created by a TCU grad, Alchemy Pops are made from only in-season ingredients locally sourced from Texas farmers. No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives are used to make the pops, and they are sweetened with organic cane sugar and local honey. The frozen treats are estimated to be less than 300 calories per pop. Flavors change by season and include inventive twists like honey lavender, cold brew coffee + cream and grapefruit hibiscus. Available at Pearl Snap Kolaches in Fort Worth and Farm to Fork Foods in Arlington.
2). Hail Merry Grawnola
Dallas-based Grawnola is a versatile snack that can be taken on the go or mixed with a cup of Greek yogurt. Created by founder Susan O"Brien, a raw foods expert, these 3. 5-ounce packets contain only 190 calories per serving and are gluten free and grain Free. Composed of wholesome ingredients like almonds, orange juice, dried apples and pecans, the ingredients in grawnola are dehydrated instead of roasted or baked in order to reserve essential nutrients. Available at Central Market and Sunflower Shoppe.
3). Justin's Classic Almond Butter Packets
These small 1.15-ounce, on-thego squeeze packs make healthy snacking easy whether you're riding your bike on the Trinity Trails or you just can't leave your desk. Made with California almonds, the 190-calorie packet fits in your pocket and is tasty by itself or paired with fresh banana or apple slices. Founder Justin Gold started the company in his home kitchen in 2004 and has since gone on to be recognized as Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst & Young. Available at The Fresh Market and Central Market.
4). The Good Bean Roasted Chickpeas
One serving of these crunchy and crispy chickpeas has as much protein as almonds, the fiber equivalent to two cups of broccoli and the folate equivalent to three cups of spinach. To top it off, there are no artificial ingredients hiding in the nutrition facts, and there are seven different flavors available to satisfy any craving, sweet or salty. At 120 calories per serving, feel free to have a bag…or two. Available at Sprouts.
5). Wholly Guacamole Minis
Wholly Guacamole started when a DFW-based restaurant owner decided to implement a special technology to create a prepackaged guacamole without additives and preservatives. Now, the Saginaw company has turned the classic dip into a filling on-the-go snack. At 100 calories per mini pack, these vegan and kosher individual servings are made with hand-scooped Haas avocados. Peel the lid back for a small squeeze, or open it all the way to enjoy the whole snack. Available at Tom Thumb and Albertsons.
