If the people you are buying gifts for are anything like me, we may have two important things in common. One, they are concerned about making sure they eat healthy foods and exercise, and two, they are constantly on the go. Some days I feel like I’m running around for hours, and when I’m out, it’s not always easy to find great choices when it comes to food. But with a little preparation, this is a problem that can easily be solved. And you, as the gift-giver, can help solve it and help keep your loved ones healthy and happy.
I love eating. It’s really quite simple. When I don’t eat for long periods of time, I get a bit grouchy. But like many people out there, I do love to eat high protein and cut the carbs where I can. I’ve found it’s helpful to keep protein-rich food handy so when the urge to snack hits me, I am prepared. For those protein lovers you’re shopping for, I’ve come up with some of my favorites when it comes to snacking healthy.
FILLETS OF MACKEREL
Up first, as an alternate (and dare I say tastier) option to sardines is mackerel. As to why sardines are more popular, I’m not quite sure as when it comes to flavor, the mackerel wins. Skinless and boneless and a high source of Omega-3, this is a delightful choice when it comes to protein snacks. They come packed in olive oil, and you can order in packs of 12, 24, 36, or 48.
THINK HIGH PROTEIN BAR
When looking at a shelf of protein bars, it can be a bit overwhelming. There are so many brands and flavors and without studying every single one, it’s hard to know what the best choice is. Fear not. My college son put together a spreadsheet comparing all the nutritional aspects of protein bars. His conclusion? The THINK high protein bar is the way to go. You can order in a variety pack of flavors or stick with one favorite flavor (his is lemon bar), and you can order in packs of 10 or 20. Protein bars are a great choice for a snack because they fit in a pocket or purse and can be eaten just about anywhere.
BEEF SNACK STICKS
Along the same lines as protein bars, when it comes to jerky, there are so many choices. Which is best? Well, I’ve sacrificed and done some taste-testing, and my conclusion? The Stryve Beef Biltong Sticks are the choice you should make. They’re nitrate-free, gluten-free, sugar-free. Simply put, they are pure, awesome protein. At 115 calories a piece, they will fill you up and not leave you wanting to eat the entire package (like many jerky packages I’ve tried). The mesquite BBQ is a delicious flavor choice, though you can opt for other flavors or even a variety pack.
ALMOND BUTTER SNACK PACKS
Nut butters are a great source of protein, and topping the list for these are the almond butter ones. I love many of the different brands, and it was hard to pick one to highlight, but I decided to go with the Barney brand due to how smooth they are and how they are the perfect size for a snack. Almond butter packs can be kept everywhere: gym bag, the car, your purse, your fanny pack, making them so easy to keep around. They are sure to make your gift-receiver thrilled next time they get hungry and want a healthy snack.
PREMIER PROTEIN SHAKES
Our list of protein rich snacks would not be complete without a protein shake. I adore shakes. I sometimes think that I could drink my entire source of calories. I’ve tried many a protein shake, but my favorite when it comes to nutritional content versus flavor is the Premier Caramel protein shake. If caramel isn’t your thing, worry not. You can get chocolate, cookies & cream, pumpkin spice, and vanilla. Also, the best part about them? They are super low in sugar and high in protein, making every calorie count the right way.
