Whether you’re sitting in the office or strolling the mall, vending machines can beckon temptingly. The problem is that they tend to be filled with unhealthy sugary or fried snacks that can foil your resolution to maintain a healthy weight. But if you must succumb to the temptation, read on first to find out which vending snacks are the better choices.
If it’s your sweet tooth that’s giving you a hard time, opt for snacks like granola bars and animal crackers. When it comes to candy, pick those that have raisins or nuts in them, like many trail mixes do.
If the munchies have you craving something salty, however, avoid fried snacks like potato chips. Instead try unsalted or lightly salted nuts.
Pretzels and baked chips are also good options. Although baked chips do not necessarily have fewer calories than fried chips, the chances are they contain less fat, making them the healthier choice.
Check your vending machine to see if it carries dried fruit snacks. Because of their convenient packaging that keeps them from spoiling, dried fruits are a great option for a busy person on the go.
New vending machines are being tested in some areas in the U.S. These refrigerated snack machines carry fresh fruit, providing dramatically healthier options for consumers.
When looking for something to wash down your snack with, remember that water is always your healthiest bet, although low-fat milk and unsweetened tea are fairly healthy beverages as well. If you must have something sweet, diet and sugar-free drinks trick the body into sweet satisfaction without adding the extra calories that regular sodas carry.
Don’t be fooled by juices. Even all-natural juices contain high amounts of sugar. If you cannot resist your cravings for juice, try pouring some into a glass filled halfway with water. This will dilute the excessive amounts of sugar while still satisfying your need for flavor.
