By: Nikki Nies
Growing up, a summer was not complete without a trek to Ohio to visit my grandparents. I still remember packing the car the night before so we could get up real early, only having to put our clothes on for that day. While I made sure to have my toothbrush in a handy spot in the car, the snacks were always a top priority concern of mine.
I grew up with limited trips to fast food joints, which I’m now grateful for, with my mother preparing sandwiches the night before for the road.
Here’s some friendly suggestions to keep in mind:
- Whole grain cereal cups: Look for brands that contain at least 4 g of fiber and approximately 160 calories/cup; i.e. cheerios; great to be paired with low fat yogurt and bananas
- Peanuts in the shell: Great source of reservatrol, vitamin E and monounsaturated fats=heart healthy snack; 1/2 cup provides 7 g of protein, 3 g of fiber and 20% of your daily value of vitamin E
- Trail Mix: Opt for the dried fruit and mixed nuts options and you’re good to go; be mindful of portions, as 3 tablespoons are 140 calories and 9 g of fat
- Baby Carrots: So handy and filling, dip in peanut butter if needed and it’s a stellar treat
- Bananas: They don’t get enough of the spotlight, but these fruits are awesome portable, year round fruit; a great powerhouse, able to provide you the energy you need to get through the day
- Plain Popcorn: don’t have to worry about staining your clothes, it’s a great portable snack sans butter
- Mini Pita Sandwiches: Combine hummus, sliced cucumbers, carrots and/or peppers to pita bread
With any trips on the road, whether it’s a 5 minute drive to the post office or cross country trip, you don’t have
to rely on junk food to get you through the days. Any one who knows me well, can attest that I brings snacks anywhere and everywhere, you never know when you’re going to get in a bind and need a little refueling. With a little planning and prep, your family and you can be on the road in no time with some delicious, yet health alternatives.
Wanting to experiment with trail mix varieties? It can add fun to prepping for the trip!
Sources: http://www.cookinglight.com/eating-smart/smart-choices/healthy-convenience-store-foods-00412000067519/
http://www.weightwatchers.com/util/art/index_art.aspx?tabnum=1&art_id=13941
http://www.besthealthmag.ca/eat-well/healthy-snacks/15-healthy-snack-ideas-for-road-trips
http://www.chow.com/galleries/494/22-recipes-for-healthy-road-trip-snacks
wedishnutrition.wordpress.com 