Nothing can cheer you up like protein-rich snacks when the dreaded midday slump hits. And there are plenty of filling, portable, and easy-to-prepare options that you can prepare right in your kitchen that suit your needs.
Even if proteins are not a fast-acting source of energy, it is always vital to avoid this slowness and fatigue feeling, Sammi Brondo, MS, RD, CDN, a New York-based dietitian, tells SELF. It contains calories to maintain your energy levels and helps you avoid hangerand it takes longer to digest than other macronutrients like fats or carbs, so it keeps you going longer, says Brondo.
While experts generally suggest at least 20 to 30 grams of protein per meal, you don’t need to strive to get that much in snacks: 5 to 10 grams can be enough to fill you up, says Brondo. (This can also help you answer your questions overall protein intake goalsespecially if your breakfast or lunch was a little light.) Plus, if you combine it with other macronutrients, you’ll increase that energy boost, Susan Greeley, MS, RDN, chef-instructor and dietitian at the Culinary Institute of Education in New York, tells SELF. For example, you can mix Black beans and olive oil into hummus and eat it with tortilla chips, or bake bananas, Greek yogurt and oats into hearty muffins for a healthy snack.
That means protein bars, hard-boiled eggs or string cheese sticks aren’t your only options for a hearty bite: There are tons of different ways to get your fix. To save you the trip to that sad snack cupboard or pantryWe’ve rounded up some hearty, portable, easy-to-prepare mealtime snacks that you can make without a problem. protein powder in favor of a combination of whole and satisfying ingredients. From pumpkin spice chickpeas to chili-covered edamame, these ideas will get you pumped up to take on your busiest days.
