Protein Packed Snack Ideas

Snacks are a fantastic way to keep your energy up and metabolism going throughout the day. But what you choose to eat for the snack can make a huge difference in how you feel after you eat it. Snacks that are high in refined carbohydrates and sugars can give you an immediate burst of energy but cause a spike in blood sugar which then causes a crash after it's gone and end up making you feel more tired, or drained and then craving more sugar as your body tries to even itself out. If you want to avoid this cycle of snacking and blood sugar spikes, one of the best things you can do is replace sugary snacks with nutritious options that contain plenty of protein which helps you feel satisfied while also helping to regulate your blood sugar.

Here are just a few ideas of snacks that pack a punch of protein and are easy to grab during a busy day:

• Beef Jerky (check the ingredients to make sure you find one thats low in sodium and does not contain added sugars)

• Trail mix containing high proterin nuts like almonds or pistachios (pay attention to portion sizes listed on the label though, it's easy to over due this)

• Turkey and cheese rolls (roll a few pieces of sliced turkey around a cheese stick and enjoy)

• Greek Yogurt with granola or Berries

• Cucumber with ricotta spread on top

• Cottage cheese and fruit or veggies

• Veggie sticks dipped into Greek yogurt with fresh herbs

• Tuna fish

• Hard boiled eggs

• Protein balls

• Sweet bell peppers stuffed with ricotta cheese

• Peanut Butter and apple slices or Celery sticks

• Roasted Chickpeas

• Hummus and carrots

• Chunked cheese

• Nuts

• Salmon

• Pumpkin Seeds

• Chicken salad made with mashed avocado or greek yogurt

• Egg white bites

• Protein smoothies

• Avocado spread onto whole grain toast

What you are trying to find here, is a balance between something that tastes good, and gives you energy without spiking your blood sugar. A small snack that helps you feel satisfied so that you can make it to your next planned meal. Be sure to pre-portion out your snacks to help prevent eating more at a time than you intend to, especially with food like the nuts or trail mix.

So go get creative and be ready when that next snack attack hits!