September's Recipe: Manage Stress with Easy Wholesome Snacks for Busy Professionals

To keep your blood sugar balanced and, therefore, reduce stress at work, try these nutritious snacks perfect for busy professionals. I always have one or two of these in my backpack or handbag to ensure I have healthy options on hand.

These easy wholesome snacks are easy to prepare, portable, and packed with nutrition. Whole foods provide sustained energy without needing prep—choosing fruits, veggies, seeds or nuts over processed snacks ensures you're getting the most out of your breaks and keeping stress levels in check.

1. Apples and Almond Butter

Grab an apple and some almond butter. Justin’s almond butter now comes in to-go-packs so easy to grab and go and no need to refrigerate or prep in the office kitchen.

2. Baked Veggie Chips

You can often find these in the chips aisle in your local grocery store. However, many brands include highly refined oils like canola, palm oil, or vegetable oil. Try to stick to products that contain more of the “better-for-you” fats and less saturated fat such as avocado oil or olive oil.

Or if you have time, prepare a homemade batch at the beginning of the week.  https://wholefully.com/crispy-baked-vegetable-chips/

3. Mixed Nuts and Fruit

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)

• 1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins, dried apricots, or cranberries - try to find ones with no added sugar)

• Optional: 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or coconut flakes

Combine nuts, dried fruit, and any optional add-ins in an air tight container or resealable bag.

4. Homemade Granola

I like to make a batch on the weekend to get me through the week.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

• 1/4 cup coconut oil

• 1/2 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)

• 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1 tsp of salt

• Optional: Sprinkle of coconut flakes

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 275°F.

2. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl, except for the dried fruit.

3. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway. Oats should be browned and crunchy

4. Cool, then mix in dried fruit. Store in an airtight container.

These quick to-go snacks are portable and perfect for busy professionals!