When you live an active and busy lifestyle, it can be hard to prepare a meal. Sometimes you need to eat something quick and easy that hits the spot and satisfies your hunger. Unfortunately, many snack foods are high in sugar and refined carbs, and these snacks often leave you unsatisfied, so you have to eat more. So, instead of reaching for a sugary snack, reach for a nutritious snack that contains protein. Eating protein can help stabilize blood sugar levels and promotes fullness so that you won’t be left craving more food.
When hunger hits, it hits hard. If you want to avoid becoming hangry during the mid-day lull, munching on some high-protein snacks is the way to go. Check out some of the things you can eat when hunger hits that will fill you up and give you long-lasting energy.
Jerky
A snack that is high in protein and convenient is jerky. Jerky can be made from salmon, chicken, beef, turkey, or buffalo and can be found in most grocery stores. While making your own jerky is best, it’s not always feasible. But if you do buy jerky from the store, make sure you read the ingredients before you buy. Many versions of jerky that’s sold in stores can be high in sugar and contain many artificial ingredients.
Tuna
Pairing tuna with some crackers is a great way to satisfy your mid-afternoon munchies. Not only is it simple and satisfying, but it’s healthy, high in protein and is a great way to add some much-needed B vitamins, vitamin D, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids to your diet. This convenient snack is extra filling, so don’t hesitate to open up a can the next time you need to curb your appetite.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt not only provides calcium and probiotics to fight inflammation and keep your gut bacteria in check, but it also is higher in protein than regular yogurt. If you want to enhance the flavor at all, stir in a drizzle of honey to sweeten the pot or add some fruit and granola if you want to make the yogurt even more delicious and filling.
Hard-Boiled Egg
Hard-boiled eggs are the classic go-to-snack for when you need an extra dose of protein. However, eggs don’t just nourish you with protein. They also contain amino acids and other nutrients that your active body craves. The best part is they are simple to make and easy to make in advance so you can have them on hand. This way you can grab one whenever you need a boost.
Cottage Cheese
A light and refreshing snack, cottage cheese packs some serious protein. However, this filling snack is also a good source of other nutrients such as selenium, calcium, vitamin B12, riboflavin, and phosphorus. So, make sure you purchase a pack of cottage cheese containers so you can grab one whenever you get hungry and eat it on the go. Cottage cheese can be enjoyed as is, or you can combine it with nuts and fruit for a delicious, nutritious snack.
Hummus
Typically blended with olive oil or tahini, hummus can be used as a spread or a dip. Perfect when paired with corn chips and vegetables, hummus is a creamy and delicious way to get more protein in your diet. Made from cooked and mashed chickpeas, this super-healthy snack is filling, nutrient dense, and is great to take with you when you are on the go.
Trail Mix
A combination of fruits, nuts and sometimes grains and chocolate, having some trail mix on hand is an excellent way to get some protein in your body when you are feeling sluggish. This delicious dose of protein is convenient and easy, and trail mix can be made in many different ways. However, if you are looking to get the most protein for your buck, use almonds and pistachios, which are higher in protein than other nuts.
Rolled-Up Turkey
Rolling up deli meat turkey slices is an excellent way to make a sandwich without bread. You can even sneak in some cheese and tomato! The best part is this nutritious, delicious snack can be meal prepped at the start of the week and stored in the refrigerator, allowing you to reach for this simple snack whenever hunger strikes!
