It’s back-to-school time, which often means back to hectic schedules with lots to get done! The last thing you want is low energy and feelings of hunger interrupting your busy day. Here is where snacks come in.

Snacks, or small amounts of food between meals, can help to keep you focused and energized. Your brain needs a steady supply of energy from glucose, a type of sugar found in food, to function at its best. Avoiding food for long periods of time can cause your blood glucose level to drop and can in turn affect cognitive abilities such as attention and learning. You may also feel tired, irritable, and not to mention, hungry… or “hangry”!

Snacks that provide a combination of carbohydrate, protein, and healthy fats, are effective in providing long lasting energy and satiety between meals. Be sure to snack mindfully, by paying attention to your food as you eat. Observing your feelings of hunger and fullness can help you to recognize the right portion size for you.

Here are some simple and nutritious snacks you can try:

• Whole grain bagel or English muffin with mashed avocado and tomatoes
• Carrot and celery sticks, with hummus and cheese cubes
• Greek yogurt with berries and granola
• Trail mix with nuts, pumpkin seeds and dried fruit
• Hard boiled egg with whole grain crackers and hummus or guacamole
• Rice cake or whole grain bread with nut butter and a banana
• Whole grain crackers and canned light tuna

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