Last week I told you about some of the wacky vending machine items that clever entrepreneurs are offering up. And while some of them had potential, like the fresh salad machines in Chicago, others were completely impractical, like the caviar kiosk in Los Angeles.
For those of us who just need a little afternoon pick-me-up, the typical vending machine offers a convenient choice of snacks to grab and go, but which item is the best choice?
When hunger pangs hit and you slide your dollar into the machine, remember to choose a snack that has a healthy balance of protein and fiber. This will keep your blood sugar from spiking, combat the dreaded foggy brain, and keep you feeling satiated for a longer period of time. When it’s time to push the button, keep these healthier options in mind.
Salty Snacks
Planters Sunflower Kernels – 160 calories, 4g fiber
Triscuit Original Snack Crackers – 240 calories, 6g fiber
Baked Lays! Original – 210 calories, 4g fiber
Traditional Check Mix – 220 calories
Reduced Fat Popcorn – 120 calories, 2g fiber
SunChips Original – 140 calories, 2g fiber
Sweet Treats
Kellogg’s Low Fat Granola Crunch Blends – 160 calories
Planters Trail Mix Nuts and Chocolate – 320 calories (but able to keep you full longer)
Fig Newtons – 190 calories, 2g fiber
Quaker Chewy Low Fat Granola Bar – Chocolate Chunk – 110 calories, 1g fiber
Avoid items with high sugar and fat like candy, regular potato chips, anything frosted (come on, this is a no-brainer) and pastries. Little Debbie is not your friend and a package of her Double Decker Oatmeal Creme Pie will set you back 470 whopping calories and 18 grams of fat.
Also Read
Sports Drinks: Bad for Kid’s Health and Behavior
School Vending Machines Getting a Government Mandated Makeover
7 Belly Buddies and Bullies – 21 Day Tummy Foods that Help and Hurt Digestion