Hectic schedules, meetings, full-time jobs, excruciatingly long distances and adding to that the traffic mayhem – these are just a few things that may pose as an obstacle between you and that uber-tech-friendly-gym, right around the corner. As much the fitness enthusiast in you would want to hit the gym the first thing in the morning or after that long dreadful day, you know there still will be days when you just can’t make it, come what may! But should that be a reason to deviate you from your fitness goal? Definitely, not!

Whether you’re following a fitness regime to shed those extra kilos or just to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle, stocking up on healthy snacks such as nuts (almonds, cashews and walnuts), fruits, wheat crackers, fiber biscuits etc. in your handbag or laptop bag can actually be your little savior.

Here are some quick, easy, delicious, and healthy snack ideas, good for everyone – the health-conscious and the weight-conscious.

1. Roasted Almonds

Almonds are a rich source of vitamin E, fiber and protein and many other important nutrients.Roasting almonds is easy; it usually takes not more than 20 minutes and is a healthy on-the-go snacking option. Roasted almonds are also easy to store and are perfect for those unusual or in-between meal hunger pangs.In fact, a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that study participants consuming 43 grams of dry-roasted, lightly salted almonds every day experienced reduced hunger and improved dietary vitamin E and monounsaturated (“good”) fat intake without increasing body weight.

2. Baked Soy Chips

Soy chips are an alternative to potato chips and are generally made from soy flour, which is high-protein flour made from roasted soybeans and is also gluten-free. Unlike most crunchy snacks, soy chips offer a good amount of protein, which makes them more filling and substantial, along with a great taste. Soy chips are baked and not fried and hence, have about one-third calories lesser than potato chips.

3. Whole-wheat crackers with almond butter

This combination is a brilliant replacement to cream based biscuits and is also perfect for those sweet cravings.Almond butter is a healthy alternative source of protein, vitamins and minerals. Most almond butter is made from ground, roasted almonds and when eaten in moderation, almond butter can be a healthy addition to any diet.

4. Roasted Makhana

Phool Makhana are roasted lotus seed snack and are considered to be healthy. They are low in saturated fats, sodium and cholesterol and have essential nutrients such as magnesium, potassium and phosphorus. Makhana can be consumed as a snack by roasting them. The popped seeds of Makhana can then be sprinkled with spices on them, according to taste, making them tasty and healthy, both at the same time.

5. Whole fruits

It’s easy to ditch the unhealthy pack of snacks available at the convenience store when one decides to stock up on a container of fresh fruits such as apples, pears, cherries, banana and grapes.Fruits are the best snacks for anyone who wants to eat healthy. They are full of natural carbohydrates and natural sugar, so you feel full without consuming a lot of calories.

Sticking to these few easy snack options will help you satiate your untimely cravings and will also help you manage your health in an efficient manner. Hence, it is always better to plan ahead and stash low-calorie, nutritious snacks in your desk drawers, car dashboard, your handbags or laptop bags.

Healthy snacking not only improves overall health but also gives you the power boost you need to keep going all day. So the next time you’re stuck in a traffic jam, feeling hungry, you can count on these savior snacks!