Curb your cravings at work

I know it can be a struggle sitting at a desk all day, especially with the beautiful weather right outside your window. I’ve tried to make it a little easier on you by putting together some tips to get you through the day -- with snacks.

During the work day, people often look for a quick and easy (and usually unhealthy) fix for their cravings. Foods high in carbohydrates and empty calories are often abundant and easy to find, such as vending machine pretzels, snack cakes, birthday lunches, take-out food, and candy from the desk of the person next door are common office downfalls.

But the secret is to plan ahead, and bring foods that pack more nutrition per bite!

1. Planning is key. You don’t go to meetings unprepared, and you shouldn't go to work unprepared either. Part of that means taking some time to plan snacks that increase your energy and reduce your waistline.

2. Trade in your simple carbs for more complex carbs. Fiber is important for overall health and can help curb hunger. A baggie with a cup of high fiber breakfast cereal is a great snacking option if you like to graze. Try the new All Bran with Strawberries. It’s a step away from boring bran flakes and provides 8 grams of fiber per serving.

3. Make protein a priority. Make your own merger by combining protein with carbohydrates. Combining protein and carbs helps keeps blood sugars more stable and can also provide increased satisfaction and satiety. Below I have provided some great combo ideas.

* 1 to 2 Tbsp. of reduced fat or all-natural nut butter spread on apple wedges

* Two hardboiled eggs with baby carrots. They're finger friendly when you can’t get away from your desk.

* Two or three Laughing Cow Reduced Fat cheese wedges pressed on a Multigrain, reduced-calorie English muffin. A great combo of calcium and fiber and my personal favorite!

* Cheese wedges can also be pressed into the spine of celery for a refreshing snack.

* Homemade trail mix with whole almonds, shredded wheat, and raisins. Sweet and crunchy!

* A cup of low-fat yogurt with fresh or frozen blueberries. If you prepare this at home to enjoy in the office, frozen berries keep yogurt cold on your travels and defrost with added juice that blends with the yogurt for a calcium-packed treat.

* Roll it up! Reduced fat cold cuts with a slice of cheese roll up quickly and are ready to go.

* Single serve reduced fat cottage cheese with added pineapple. Quick, easy, and high in protein and calcium. Enjoy with a few reduced fat wheat crackers for an added crunch.

For more fun snack recipes, pick up the L A Lite cookbook at your local center and check back later for more helpful tips to keep you on track!