Keep these 5 low-calorie snacks on your work desk to fight hunger pangs

Covid-19 is unprecedented in more than one way, as millions of people across the world have to work out of their homes as social distancing norms have taken over the professional spaces.

Besides a lot of time spent in sweatpants and track pants, work from home also attracts disorderly eating habits affecting the overall health.

Munching on our favourite snacks kept at just an arm’s length away, with no office policies dictating eating at desk norms, is quite natural. While it is hard to choose healthy snacks when working from home, research by the National Library of Medicine shows that snacking on nutritious foods that are high in fibre and protein help promote feelings of fullness, will help you stay energised and may decrease the number of calories you consume in a day.

Therefore, we present to you five delicious, low-calorie and filling snacks that you can gorge away from the comfort of your home:

1. Nuts and dried fruit

Nuts and dried fruits are a healthy and non-perishable option with a good balance of all three macronutrients (carbohydrates, fats and proteins). Moreover, nuts and dried fruits are loaded with fiber that can help keep you full between meals.

2. Roasted chickpeas (channa)

This snack is high in protein, fibre, and several vitamins and minerals. In fact, half cup (125 grams) of chickpeas has 5 grams of fibre and 10 grams of protein. Additionally, chickpeas contain essential amino acids and high quality protein. This snack will help improve feelings of fullness and may aid weight loss as well.

3. Apple slices with peanut butter

This is a delicious and satisfying snack consisting of protein and healthy fats. Apples are high in fiber and water, making them filling. Peanut butter on the other hand will give you a solid dose of carbohydrates, fiber, good fats and protein.

4. Homemade oats and granola bar

Oats and granola bar will provide you with nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and antioxidant plant compounds that help with weight management, lowering blood sugar levels and a reduced risk of heart disease. This snack will boost your immunity, ward off bacterial infections and help your stomach stay full for a considerable time.

5. Popcorn

Popcorn is a satisfying snack that is high in fibre and low in calories. About 16 grams (2 cups) of popcorn has 62 calories, 12 grams of carbs, 2 grams of fibre, and several vitamins and minerals. Moreover, it contains antioxidants called polyphenols that may help protect against chronic conditions such as heart disease.

Balance health and hunger pangs with these snacks!