Because of the fast-paced lifestyle the world has developed, people have acquired practices that adapt to this environment. As a result, snacking has become on-trend. According to Forbes, 94% of Americans eat one snack every day. Out of all the generations, Millennials snack the most: at least four times a day.
However, “snack” means differently today. It’s no longer just chips, crackers, or candy bars. People are opting for a healthier lifestyle, and this affects their snacking choices. They look for the nutritional value of a snack.
Aside from this, Millennials look for sustainability. Snacks with fewer chemicals and preservatives are better—not only for personal health but also for the environment.
With the new definition of snacks, food like yogurt, granola bars, keto cookies, etc. now fall under the category.
Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt contains calcium, probiotics, and protein, improving bone health, digestion, and muscle health. Lower blood pressure is also attributed to Greek yogurt. It has less sugar than regular yogurt and undergoes a straining process that eliminates whey.
Granola snack bars
According to Healthline, “Granola is calorie-dense, as well as rich in protein, fiber, and micronutrients. In particular, it may provide iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, selenium, B vitamins, and vitamin E.” Because of these nutrients, granola improves digestion, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure.
Keto cookies
A ketogenic diet is low-carb, low-sugar, and focused on fat consumption. The logic behind this diet is the deprivation of energy sources—carbohydrates and sugar, in this care—to allow the body to take energy from body fat. That being said, keto cookies don’t contain sugar and gluten. They use alternatives like almond or coconut flour and 100% cacao chocolate bar.
Kale chips
Kale is incredibly healthy plant food. It is dense with vitamins such as Vitamin A, K, C, B6, Manganese, Calcium, Copper, Potassium, and Magnesium. It is also loaded with antioxidants that help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, which means it’s good for the heart. Kale also contains compounds that can fight cancer and protect the eyes. For people who have vitamin deficiencies, Kale could be a super-food that can help provide these vitamins.
Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is a sweet treat that can improve cardiovascular health, brain function, and lower blood pressure. Because of its high cocoa content, dark chocolate packed with nutrients like fiber, iron, magnesium, copper, and manganese. However, it must be taken in moderation because, after all, it still contains lots of sugar.
Almonds
One serving of almonds only contains 161 calories, but it’s loaded with fiber, protein, Vitamin E, manganese, and magnesium. It’s also a great source of antioxidants that help prevent inflammation, aging, and cancer. It’s an ideal snack for people with diabetes because it doesn’t contain many carbohydrates, and it is high in magnesium. Almonds can lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and the feeling of being hungry.
You can keep these snacks in your pocket and fish them out in the office, on the sidewalk, or the bus. Whether you’re eating for convenience, sustainability, or diet, these on-the-go snacks are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and other nutrients that can improve your overall health. Just take note: eat in moderation.
