by Veronika Larisova, Co-founder of Chief Nutrition
Nutritionist, exercise physiologist and ultra-marathon runner who has trained many Hollywood celebrities filming in Sydney. Veronika is very passionate about the science behind health and wellness. In this article, she shares the healthiest snacks you should keep in your handbag/desk.
Snacking on the go is one of the easiest ways to either eat healthy or unhealthily, particularly as we all lead such busy lifestyles. If you are snacking on the go, it’s always best to try and opt for healthier foods that will maximise your energy and give you the boost you need.
Here is my top 4 on the go snacks:
Biltong
Biltong is my all-time favourite snack. It’s low in calories and carbs and packed with protein and nutrients. It contains a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including iron, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B12. It’s highly satiating and doesn’t cause a blood sugar roller coaster like sweet snacks do. That means I’m fully satisfied with no cravings. The bonus is that you have to chew it properly, which provides enough time for the brain to register that the stomach is full. As much as we love smoothies, those are probably the worst snacks because you don’t have to chew them, which often ends up in consuming too many calories before your brain has the time to register it.
Mini Protein Cheesecakes
Protein mini cheesecakes. I love making my own cheesecakes in an air fryer. It’s a quick and simple recipe to satisfy my sweet tooth while providing a protein double whammy – from cottage cheese and whey protein. Mix 250g (one container) of regular cottage cheese with one egg and one scoop of protein powder. Add 100% monk fruit powder if you really love sweets. Mix properly, divide into silicone cupcake moulds, and fry in an air fryer for 15 minutes at 160 degrees Celsius or until the cakes are golden on top. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Collagen Bars
Our Collagen Bar is my favourite sweet treat on the go. You don’t need to keep it in the fridge; you can literally have a stash in the glovebox of your car or in the drawer at your office. It tastes delicious but contains only around 2g of sugar per bar and no artificial additives, unlike other protein bars on the market. It’s very high in protein, and your skin and gut will thank you.
Homemade Trail mix
I love making a trail mix from nuts and fresh blueberries. It tastes so much better than with dried fruit, and it’s also healthier, much lower in sugar and higher in nutrients. One handful of nuts with one handful of blueberries is enough. Always make separate portions. Never keep a big bag of nuts on your desk unless extreme discipline is your superpower.
For more healthy snack ideas, check out their website: https://wearechief.com/