Secret Ingredient

Healthy Snacks for All Day Energy

healthy snacks

Snacking is good for you. Snacking is good for you. Snacking is good for you. Now this is a mantra we can get behind!

There can so often be a negative connotation associated with the idea of snacking, but snacking on the right types of healthy, whole foods is actually a vital part of staying energized. As long as you’re nibbling on naturally fresh and nutrient-packed foods, healthy snacks will help you not just achieve a high level of energy, but maintain it no matter what your day has in store for you.

Healthy Snacks the Right Way

So what are the right foods to nosh on? In order to stay on an even keel, your body needs fuel that will help sustain a consistent level of strength and energy, not the spikes and dips of a sugar or caffeine rush. Whether you need a little extra boost mid-morning (around the time I like to call second breakfast), are looking for extra fuel for your workout or need a recovery snack after a cardio session, foods that are high in protein, contain plenty of quality fats and incorporate fruits and veggies (fresh or dried) will stave off hunger between meals and keep your body happy.

This doesn’t mean that healthy snacks can’t still be delicious and crave-worthy! My Tropical Power Bites are an example of a portable snack you can easily prep ahead of time to pop in your mouth when your body needs it. From the fiber- and iron-rich dates to the vitamin- and mineral-packed mango and heart-healthy cashews (with the option to add a little guilt-free sweetness with shredded coconut or cocoa powder), these bites will give you the natural boost your body needs to get through the day with energy to spare.

The best part? You can make them in minutes. I love to have them pre- or post-yoga, and my clients request them for their weekly adventures. I can’t wait to hear what you think.

But wait, before we get to the recipe…

I’ve got big news: I’ve been nominated for the Main Line Parent 2017 LOVE Awards! This is the Main Line Parent celebration of businesses, people and resources that are best for families in the Philadelphia area. Please vote for me in the NOURISH category for best food prep/meal delivery service before March 14, 2017. Winners will be featured in the June 2017 issue of Main Line Parent. Vote for me here (and thanks in advance for your support)!

Tropical Power Bites

Ingredients

1 cup pitted dates
1 cup dried softened mango slices
1 cup raw cashews
Shredded coconut or cocoa powder, optional

Directions

  1. Place ingredients in a food processor and process until fairly smooth and combined.
  2. Roll into balls. Roll in shredded coconut or cocoa powder, if desired.
  3. Keep in the fridge for up to a week.