Summer is finally here! We’ve been thrown several curveballs so far in 2020, and many of us have spent more time at home, snacking on comfort foods like chips and baked goods. If you’re looking for nutritious snacks that will nourish both your body and mind all summer long, look no further. Here are some healthy snacks to help get you through:
1. Fresh Fruit
Summer is when some of the best fruits are in season! Juicy peaches, nectarines, cherries and strawberries, and watermelon are all at their peak, at least here in the U.S. These colorful fruits are jam-packed with vitamins and minerals that we need to boost our immune health and help our cells function at optimal levels.
Pro Tip: Concerned about eating “finger foods” in public? Make fruit kebabs and eat them off of a stick while you’re out at the park or by the pool. This is a safe way to make (almost) anything more shareable and decrease the potential spread of germs by limiting contact between your hands and mouth.
2. Nutty Trail Mix
Trail mix can be an easy way to consume protein and heart-healthy fats while on the go or on the couch. Make your own by combining a variety of nuts like cashews and almonds, with some dried fruit, pepitas, and roasted coconut chips mixed in.
Pro Tip: Keep your snack healthy by avoiding premade mixes that often have lots of candy or added sugars in them. If you’re feeling up to it, it’s easy to DIY. Just buy a few different types of nuts and raisins and mix them together in a sandwich bag or container.
3. Peanut (or Not) Butter and Jelly Sandwich
These are perfect for tossing in a backpack and eating on a hike or at a picnic. Peanut butter has the protein and fats necessary to satiate that hunger and fuel an outside adventure, but it’s not your only option. For those allergic to peanuts, there are tons of alternatives on the market. Spreads made from almonds, cashews, macadamia nuts and sunflower seeds are all gaining popularity.
Pro Tip: Choose whole-wheat bread for extra fiber and proteins. It’s a simple way to get more nutrition out of your snack.
4. Low-Fat Cottage Cheese
Low-fat cottage cheese is an easy snack that crams about 15 grams of protein into a 100-calorie serving. It’s also a great source of the amino acid leucine, which can help recover muscles after a workout. Not sure how to make cottage cheese tasty? Try adding some fresh berries, cantaloupe, or grapes.
Pro Tip: Make your snack a sweet treat by mixing a bowl of cottage cheese with a splash of vanilla extract and a drizzle of honey. You can use it as a protein-packed spread on your favorite crackers.
Whether the warm weather has you relaxing by a pool or in the comfort of your own home, make sure to keep yourself hydrated and aim for well-balanced meals as much as you can. As for the rest of the time, happy snacking!
