It’s back-to-school season, and that means it is time for to-go lunches, easy-to-carry snacks and energizing drinks. With so many different options on the market, there are products that may look healthy but really aren’t. To help you make your life a little easier, I did my research and created my top five back-to-school foods. Rest assured, these items are healthy and delicious, so that you don’t have to settle for less.
1. If you are running out the door with no time for breakfast, reach for one of the Vega Protein Smoothie Packs. They are already portioned out, so all you have to do is mix one with water or your favorite nut milk, shake and drink. For less than 150 calories, you will get 15 grams of protein, seven grams of fiber and a great taste. My favorite one is Choc-A-Lot, of course!
2. If your kid is a picky eater, or you happen to be a picky adult, then try a new kind of nut butter sandwich. Instead of having the same ol’ peanut butter, tryJustin’s Chocolate Hazelnut Butter on your sandwich. This creamy spread is 100% vegan and gluten-free, and it’s 100% delicious. Pair it up with some dried apricots or banana slices, and you’ve got yourself a delicious dessert-like meal. Z-tip: Get this nut butter in single-serving packets–they are great to take when you’re on the go.
3. If you are looking for good sandwich bread, I suggest trying Ezekiel. It is made with sprouted grains, so it is easier to digest. It is also organic and high in protein in fiber. Try different varieties such as: sesame seed and cinnamon raisin. The latter is perfect for easy French toast. Whichever you choose, make sure to toast it first for the best texture and flavor. Watch this video for a delicious sandwich idea.
4. Let’s talk chicken! If you’re considering going green, but don’t want to give up chicken, try BeyondMeat Chicken. These amazing protein-packed strips have the same texture and taste as chicken. However, because they’re made with plant-protein, they take less time and energy to digest, giving you more energy to spend on other activities. A 3-ounce portion is only 130 calories and has 20 grams of protein! Since the strips are already cooked, all you have to do is add them to your sandwiches, salads or enjoy them as a snack just as they are.
5. To keep yourself or your kids energized in the afternoon, reach for a squeezable pouch of Nutiva Chiapple Sauce. Each 60-calorie serving boasts blood-stabilizing cinnamon, fiber-rich apples and the famous chia seeds that help boost your brainpower. This snack helps curb my appetite and relieves afternoon sugar cravings. I love Nutiva brand because it’s always organic and non-gmo. This is very important for apples because they belong to the dirty dozen list, which means that non-organic apples can be loaded with harmful pesticides. Click here for a printable Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen Lists.
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About Alina Z.
Alina Z., aka “The Green Goddess,” is a certified holistic health coach, detox specialist and raw-food chef (she conducts occasional classes at Whole Foods in Boca). Prior to moving to Florida, Alina hosted her own TV show in Maryland—“Entertaining A to Z”—for people who didn’t have time to cook but wanted to eat healthy. Catch one of her web episodes at eHow.com, visit Alina’s website at alinaz.com, or follow her on Facebook (facebook.com/CoutureFood) or Twitter (@CoutureFood). The Green Goddess blog runs every other Wednesday at bocamag.com.
