Here, McDaniel offers snack ideas for even the most frazzled of us.
- Ants on a Log 2 stalks celery + 2 Tbsp almond butter + 1 Tbsp raisins. Energizing carbs and filling fiber, fat, and protein—this snack’s got it all.
- DIY Energy Bites ½ c chopped dates + ¼ c rolled oats + ½ c nut butter, all mixed together and formed into 12 to 14 bites. The perfect treat, or even on-the-go breakfast, to satisfy a sweet craving while keeping blood sugar stable. MORE: 3 Party Snacks You Won’t Regret in the Morning
- Herbal Teas These are comforting and can help calm your jittery digestive tract. Chamomile specifically has been shown to ease anxiety and irritability; while green tea contains the amino acid L-Theanine, which provides a focused calm. (Here’s how to brew the perfect cup of tea every single time.)
- Open-Faced PB&B 1 slice whole-wheat toast + 1 Tbsp peanut butter + ½ banana + drizzle of honey. Foods that remind us of childhood are naturally comforting and calming, and this one just happens to be healthy, too.
- Dark Chocolate-Covered Almonds The intense flavor of dark chocolate can help curb cravings, and just 1 oz per day can help reduce stress hormones.
- Veggies & Dip 2 sliced carrots or celery stalks + 2 Tbsp guacamole or hummus. If you’re a snacker that needs to feel full to be completely satisfied, veggies fill you up without filling you out. Guac or hummus help that full feeling stay with you.
- Mini Parfait ½ cup yogurt + ½ cup blueberries + 1 oz chopped nuts. Dairy packs calcium and protein, both of which help your body release feel-good neurotransmitters.
- Flavored Water Opt for seltzer with cucumber slices, or any of these fun fruit- and veggie-infused Sassy Waters (that also help you de-bloat, too!). We often mistake dehydration for hunger, so make your drinks more interesting so you’re inclined to sip.
- Trail Mix 1 oz walnuts + 1 Tbsp dried cranberries or raisins + 1 Tbsp dark chocolate chips. Studies show that regularly snacking on walnuts may help your body respond better to stress. MORE: 17 Snacks that Power Up Weight Loss
- Curry Roasted ChickpeasThis recipe makes a great sub for chips—all the satisfying salt and crunch, none of the guilt. The article “10 Healthy Snacks Every Stress Eater Should Keep Handy” originally ran on Prevention.com.