5 Healthy Snacks to Eat on the Road

Getting Healthy on the Road

We all know that time is limited for many people and working families. It is no wonder that we don’t eat correctly, and that we all have become good friends with fast food on the go, or on the road. Once in awhile this is fine, but over time snacking poorly results in a battered immune system, body, and mind. Snacking has received a bad rap in society. Some view and connect the word with someone eating a bag of chips or slurping ice cream at night. But snacking does not need to be a dirty word anymore. Good snacking can be positive and can help the body continue in the right direction, even if you are traveling. If there is some doubt, we understand, but with planning, you can create a new healthy habit even in a frantic pace. Here is a look at five easy snacks to keep on hand when heading out today to help keep the engine going.

Oatmeal

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Snacking for the average person accounts for an estimated 600 calories a day during a snack attack, but as Shape magazine shared it has become a full eating event, and it is a growing issue. During car trips, we can really mindlessly eat while driving or sitting in the passenger's seat. Even when we are bored in the car, we eat. For a low calorie and filling snack, go for the oats. Add instant oatmeal packets to your snack kit with a to-go travel mug. Pour hot water from a thermos over the instant oats for a quick breakfast. Add dried fruit to the mix for added benefits. Also you can make oatmeal cookies the night before and bring those along. Additionally, oatmeal has soluble fibers that help to lower cholesterol and stabilize blood glucose levels, Everyday Health reported. And it can keep weight down by making you feel full, so you can pass the Dunkin Donuts without remorse. Need a little more convincing about oatmeal? Oatmeal is so celebrated that there is a National Oatmeal Day every October 29.

Fruit

Having fruit on hand can be helpful for a quick boost and to help keep hunger away when traveling. Having a few fruit cups handy is convenient and it is easy to store because they have a long shelf life, and can be used on the go. Dried fruit is another option for you to keep in the car without fearing it becoming spoiled. Raisins, dates, papayas, bananas, and dried apples can be mixed in a resealable bag with granola for a healthy snack. If drying fruit or making homemade granola is not your thing, visit the store and create your own mix. There are so many different varieties of granola bars to choose from, but watch the sugar content. Both Chia Bars and Renola Granola are low in sugar. Don't forget the nuts. They have vitamin E and vitamin B-12. Vitamin E helps heal the skin, and can help with energy levels with its antioxidants. The vitamin is good for the eyes, the skin and could reduce the risks for cancer and heart disease. You can find the benefits in sunflower seeds, tomatoes, almonds, and in whole grains.

Peanut Butter

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Whole wheat crackers and peanut butter is another idea for a good snack. Worried about the fat in the peanut butter or can’t eat it due to an allergy? Try reduced-fat cheese, almond or cashew butter with your crackers instead. If you are in the mood for something a little naughty make your own trail mix with M&Ms with assorted nuts, and chocolate chips! Also try ants on a log. Don’t be too grossed out by the name. Fill celery stalks with peanut butter and sprinkle raisins or dried cranberries on them. This is perfect for a busy mom or anyone who lives in their car! Another trick is keeping a small box of snacks in the trunk just in case you get stuck. Keep your crackers, peanut butter, and bottled water in there for use. Think about packing dry cereal, power bars, protein powder and veggie chips as well.

Vegetables

Don’t forget the vegetables before you go. Bag cut carrots, broccoli, peppers, celery, and add sugar snap peas to the mix. Not only will it keep the calories low, it will help you get the needed vegetables for the day. If this seems overly bland for you, bring humus along for the ride, or another topping like Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. The yogurt and cottage cheese can be bought in small sizes so it will fit perfectly in the cooler. If there is no cooler, you can just add sea salt to flavor the medley for taste. Another idea is to bring tortilla wraps and stuff them with vegetables and cheese. Spread it with humus or vegan mayonnaise for a nutritious snack if you plan to go on a longer road trip. Add avocado to make it even healthier with the healthy fats. Don’t forget the tortilla chips with salsa for a side.

Protein

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Health.com shared that roasted chickpeas are another source of protein and easy to make. There are 40 grams of protein in one cup of chickpeas. Mix a little olive oil in a bowl with a few of your favorite spices and then bake it at 425 degrees for 40 minutes. Let the mixture cool and then add it to a container or bag for the road. You can also add fresh kale chips to this for even more goodness by following the chickpeas recipe and just substituting the chickpeas for kale. We mentioned wraps, but don’t forget pita pockets. Add cheese, bacon, or sliced chicken and enjoy it with the chickpeas and kale you made. Need more protein? Try jerky, string cheese, and soy nuts for not only a boost, but to make you feel satisfied through the day. String cheese and jerky does not need to be refrigerated and is great for trips and when you fly.

Finding Balance

It is very easy to throw caution to the wind when it comes to snacking on the road. Although, there is no harm in having a bad snacking moment, you can learn to find balance when you are on the road and on the go. Do what is comfortable for you. With a little planning you can keep snacking from becoming a dirty word, and enjoy solid eating habits on the fly whether it is a car trip, or going to run errands. If you are still not convinced, record what you usually eat in transit, and see if it has contributed to excess weight, or if unhealthy snacking is a problem. Sometimes when we record our actions we can see the bigger picture in how it influences our lives and health. Try looking for quick healthy snacks for the office, for trips, and for ball games. Make the call today to become more proactive regarding your health on a road trip or at home.