There is an episode of Seinfeld where Elaine developed the habit of having a sugary snack (a slice of cake or a cookie) around 3PM, as there was always someone in the office celebrating a birthday or anniversary.
At one point she denounced the excessive celebrations and got cut off from the afternoon sugar rush. She quickly realized how much she actually depended on the afternoon jolt.
Does this sound familiar? Do you seem to hit the wall mid-afternoon?
If this sounds like you, what do you do?
Are you like Elaine? Looking for a sugary substance to snack on or maybe your sweet nectar is caffeine (tea, coffee, espresso)?
I too have fallen victim to this trap. Looking for some form of chocolate or maybe drinking a cup of coffee. The real issue is why do we do this?
Maybe what we ate earlier in the day has burned off or we didn’t get enough sleep the night before. Whatever the problem is, it can become a dangerous cycle.
In a prior post I talked about the importance of nutrition and Winning In the Grocery Store.
Today I suggest you also look at your snacks as a method to control your daily energy.
Food is fuel…plain and simple, but what type of food you consume has a major effect on your health and energy level.
Not only what you eat but also your food timing will also affect your energy levels.
For example, if I eat a healthy breakfast, say eggs and oatmeal at 7AM, I might start to feel hungry by 10. If I don’t plan to have a small healthy snack then I will start reaching for the donuts or whatever is lying around.
Eating highly processed foods will quickly elevate your blood sugar causing a spike in insulin. This results in your blood sugar dropping to low levels which can cause you to feel hungry and the cycle repeats.
Having healthy snacks is a way to keep blood sugar steady during the day as well as contribute to your overall health and energy levels.
So what are some healthy snacks:
I love apples (envy, gala or fuji) are my favorites. I may put a little bit of almond butter on it or just eat it plain.
Same with bananas and almond butter or you can use any nut butter.
Trail Mix, granola, almonds or peanuts. The higher fat content also helps with the feeling of being full and satisfied.
Pre-packaged food such as Lara or Rx bars are made with only a few simple ingredients compared to a candy bar or other “health bars”. Review the labels to see what I mean.
Just be aware that any type of nut mix will be higher in fat and calories which might affect your weight if you are not careful about your portion size.
Other snacks include air popped popcorn, vegetables (broccoli, carrots, celery) dipped in hummus.
Cottage cheese or greek yogurt mixed with fruit or nuts.
I am not a fan, but hard boiled eggs provide for some protein as well.
You can search the internet for a plethora of healthy snack options. The key is to pick the ones you like and make a plan.
Stock your desk drawer or car with your favorites, just make sure they won’t spoil.
Also don’t forget the importance of drinking water like Uncle Rocky.
When you start to feel your energy dip you can reach for something healthy to keep you going and avoid that 3PM crash.
Remember the KEY is to start so small that it is impossible to fail.
Have a great week and let me know what some of your favorite healthy snacks are.
To Your Health,
Robert
PS. If you or someone you know is suffering with some aches and pain then give us a call 817-220-MOSS (6677) to schedule a FREE No Obligation Discovery Visit
PPS. We are hosting an In Office Low Back Pain workshop on August 7th at 10AM. If you are suffering from lower back pain or know someone who is, this is for you. You can register here:
In Office Low Back Pain Workshop
Secrets to Easing Your Nagging Back Pain and Maintaining An Independent Lifestyle
Saturday August 7th 2021 at 10AM
