On the Go Snacks for Long Lasting Energy
The Summer months, and even the beginning of Fall are filled with outdoor activities! On-the-go snacks are essential to stay energized. Not only are these snacks great for people of all ages, but especially college students on a budget. Check out our grab and go snack recommendations below!
Granola Bars
Prepackaged and even homemade granola bars are easy portable snacks. Look for bars like: Clif Bars, Luna Bars, Lara Bars, Kind Bars, or Nature Valley Bars from some quick, easy, on the go nutrition.
- Pro Tip: Try a RX Bar! They are made with clean and simple products. They are a great source of protein and there are several different flavors, including but not limited to, peanut butter, chocolate sea salt, blueberry, and vanilla almond..
Make Your Own Trail Mix
Mixing your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruit is a tasty and satisfying on the go snack. Include almonds, peanuts, cashews, sunflower seeds, granola, dried cranberries, and even chocolate chips!
- Pro Tip: Try adding dried banana chips to your next trail mix for a sweet and crunchy addition. Bananas are packed with vitamins and minerals. Some of these include B, C, potassium, and manganese. They are also a good source of healthy carbohydrates. Look for banana chips in the supermarket or simply dry fresh bananas using an oven or dehydrator.
Fresh Fruit
The original grab and go snack – a piece of fruit. Apples, bananas, and berries are among the several fruits that are easy to grab and go. Apples are one of the most popular and full of nutrients. An apple provides vitamin C and fiber while promoting digestion and heart health. Bananas not only are aa great source of potassium but also vitamin B and C. The summer is the best season for berries so there is also many to choose from! Blueberries and strawberries are a great blend. Blueberries are known for their high levels of antioxidants which maintain healthy cells in our body. Strawberries are a great source of vitamin C, B, and folate. These berries are not only great on their own but can also make a great topping for a cup of yogurt.
- Pro Tip: Pair your fruit with a heart healthy fat or protein to improve satiety. Pair bananas with peanut butter, apples with cheese, or berries with nuts.
RECIPE: Energy Balls
Energy balls are such an easy snack to make before heading outside or at the beginning of the week. There are several different recipes to follow! Today were going to look at a peanut butter oat recipe and the nutritional benefits that come along with it. Ingredients you will need are oats, peanut butter, chia seeds, chocolate chips, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and unsweetened shredded coconut. You can also customize these with flaxseeds, chopped nuts, and honey if desired.
Ingredients (yields ~46 energy balls):
- 2 cups of oats
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 8 oz chocolate, bittersweet, chopped
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
- 1 1/2 cup peanut butter, creamy
Directions:
- In a large bowl mix together all ingredients
- Mix well until they stick together
- Chill mixture for an hour and roll out balls
- Store in an airtight container or pack as a snack when you’re on the go
