"More often than not, being a mom is synonymous with being on the go. School drop-off, baseball pick-up, music lesson, dance class… rinse and repeat. Although being busy used to be worn like a badge of honor, we’ve since learned that being in constant motion adds strain to our mental load and is not really good for our health. So, if you’ve been waiting for a sign to take better care of yourself, this is it.
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Self-care comes in many forms, and adequately fueling your body is one of them. But giving your body the energy it needs can feel tricky with a full schedule. Enter the on-the-go snack. Sure, in an ideal world (or maybe Paris), all of our meals and snacks would be an occasion, and we’d enjoy them at a table with good conversation and better company. But for now, let’s just master the art of the snack.
When you think about healthy snacks for moms, think about building bridges. You want something that will carry you from one place to another—breakfast to lunch, perhaps? It should be strong and balanced enough to carry all that you carry as a mom. This means choosing foods that will keep you full and satisfied long after you finish chewing. Ideally, pick a mix of protein- and fiber-rich foods balanced out with complex carbohydrates and healthy fats.
If that sounds complicated—don’t worry! Keep reading for a handful of healthy snacks for moms to toss in your bag during your next Tour de Child activities.
8 Healthy Snacks for Moms on the Go
1. Dried fruit
Dried fruit is so simple to grab, delicious, and packed with vitamins and fiber. Plus, there are a ton of varieties, so that helps keep boredom at bay. Try traditionally dried, freeze-dried, or fruit chips. Add a handful of nuts to add in some protein and fat. The combinations are endless!
2. Trail Mixes
Nuts + seeds + dried fruit + chocolate = the perfect trail mix combo. This power formula gives you protein, fiber, satisfying crunch, delicious fats, and, of course, chocolate. Keep a variety of trail mix options on hand in the pantry, and it’s easy to grab and go before you head out the door. For extra unique creations, you can also DIY by combining your favorite nuts, seeds, dried fruits (or veggies!), and/or chocolate pieces in an airtight container or storage bag. Bonus: Kids love this snack, too! Just watch out for nuts and seeds with kiddos under four—they can be a choking hazard!
3. Protein-packed smoothie
Smoothies can be an amazing way to keep you energized and full on the go. Make sure they have some protein to balance out the fruit and veggies to help keep you full. You can blend up your own easily with your favorite produce and protein source, such as nut butter, Greek yogurt, or protein powder. There are also great pre-made blends of fruits and nutrient boosts that can be easily blended with your preferred juice, milk, or milk alternatives. Toss in an insulated mug, and it will stay cool for hours.
Green Goddess Smoothie
You don’t have to wait for a salad at mealtime to get your greens in. This smoothie recipe elevates snack time using a rich blend of greens, avocado, and banana with a sweet touch of apple.
Triple Berry Protein Smoothie
Packed with antioxidants and a perfect balance of tangy and creamy, this smoothie recipe is one that’s an easy snack choice to return to again and again.
Poppy’s Pink Smoothie
When your favorite fruit is strawberry, then this is the smoothie recipe that will leave you pleasantly satisfied.
4. Popcorn
What’s more fun than popcorn? Seriously, is it possible to be in a bad mood when eating popcorn? I’m pretty sure the answer is no, so not only is this fiber-packed snack delicious, it may just help lift your spirit. You can pop your own at home or grab a bag or two at the grocery store. While I’m all for fun flavors, be sure to check the nutrition label for added sugars. Try mixing plain with flavored to cut down on the sweetness.
5. Fruit and nut or seed butter
Fruit is the original fast food—although some kinds travel better than others. However, your favorite fruit and nut butter or seed butter makes for endless snacking combinations. The nutritional makeup is perfect as well—fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the fruit and protein and healthy fats from the nuts and seeds.
6. Energy bites or bars
Anything with energy in the title probably grabs your attention as a mom—and believe me, I get that! So, when it comes to snacks on the go, there certainly has to be room on this list for energy bars/bites. Whether you whip up a batch at home or grab something from the store, make sure they have a mix of protein, fat, fiber, and carbs to keep you going and going.
Energy Balls Recipe
Another satisfying alternative to pre-packaged protein and energy bars is to make a yummy batch of homemade no-bake energy balls yourself. Plus, they can be stored for up to two weeks, which gives you days of nourishment. Besides being easy and kid-friendly, this energy ball recipe also contains a bunch of different flavor combo ideas.
7. Specialty crackers
No offense to the classics (looking at you, Ritz), but there are some really amazing crackers on the grocery shelves right now. Typically made with nut and/or seed flour instead of wheat flour, they have more protein and fiber than the originals. This makes for a nutritionally sound yet still deliciously crunchy snack. Pair it with cheese or fruit to make it more filling.
8. Crunchy chickpeas
Did you know chickpeas get crispy and crunchy when roasted in the oven? Well—now you do! Not only are roasted chickpeas satisfyingly salty and crunchy, but they travel wonderfully, too. They can be made relatively easy at home (see below for a recipe), or they can be picked up from the store.
Crispy BBQ Roasted Chickpea Recipe
You don’t have to rely on chickpea snacks you can find at the store! With a can of chickpeas and some flavorful seasonings, you can create your own with very little prep time.
