Today’s What I Ate Wednesday post is going to be a little different. I got some great feedback on the survey I posted a couple weeks ago. One of the topics that came up a few times was the topic of keeping up a healthy lifestyle while still working a 9-5 job. While I’m no expert, I have had a 9-5 for about 4 years and in that time I’ve managed to stay healthy, train for marathons, and have some fun, all at the same time. So today I am going to share some ideas for snacking and eating healthy in an office setting.

Healthy Snack Ideas for the 9-5

• Why you should pack your lunch. When it comes to lunch at the office, you’re always better off packing your own. According to Mint.com, bringing in your own lunch could save anywhere between $1,000 and $1,500 a year! You could use that saved money for a vacation, registration for all your races for a year, or savings. To help making the lunch process easier, I suggest packing your lunch the night before. When mornings are frantic, its really easy to just forget about packing lunch or saying “screw it” and ditching it all together. Packing your lunch also allows you to have control over what you eat. If you’re watching your weight, you can calculate the calories easily because you know what went into that lunch. When faced with office pizza or catering, its easy to make a healthy choice when you have your healthy option you brought from home. Like all meals, your lunch should have some balance. Make sure to include some form of protein, some veggie or fruit, and some whole grains or healthy carbs (like sweet potatoes). Leftovers also make excellent lunches.

• Protein is key. When it comes to snacks in between meals, protein is the way to go to keep you satisfied. I often keep some of these snacks in my drawer or office fridge for times when I get hungry. Some of my favorite protein-filled snacks include:
  • Almonds and string cheese
  • Nut butter and fruit
  • Greek yogurt
  • cheese and crackers
  • Cottage cheese and some fruit
  • Hard boiled eggs
  • Hummus and veggies

• Be prepared — keep a snack drawer. In one of my desk drawers you will find all sorts of snacking goodies. Microwave oatmeal, Larabars, KIND bars, green tea, and peanut butter packets fill it to the brim. I keep this at work for the times when I either forget to pack a snack or when I’m feeling extra hungry. If I know I have healthier options within arm’s reach, I’ll be more likely to chose them over a trip to the vending machine. Whenever my grocery store has Larabars or KIND bars on sale, I grab a bunch to refill it. I know I’ll eat them and I like to have the variety.

Overall, the theme here is being prepared. If you plan your healthy meals and snacks ahead of time, you’re going to set yourself up for success. Making your lunch the night before, keeping snacks on hand, and making healthy choices makes keeping a healthy lifestyle at the office a lot easier.

Readers: What are some of your tips for making healthy food choices while working a full time job?