When working from home, one of my biggest issues, and I think I am not alone, is my urge to snack. At work, I snack frequently as well, but the difference seems to be what I am snacking on. At work, I keep a drawer stocked with healthy items so that I don’t have an option for a less healthy choice. So why can’t I keep to the same rules at home? I do often try to keep things I know I have less portion control with out of the house altogether, but there are some less healthy items at home too. How do I allow snacking but in the right amount and with the right choices? Here are some of my personal strategies.
Workspace Placement
I am lucky enough to be in a house now, but for many years we lived in “cozy” apartments. Even so, my rule always applied: I set up my workspace as far from the kitchen as possible, preferably a flight of stairs away. That is my current setup and it does ensure that every snack break comes with a flight of stairs at least.
Accessibility of Snacks
I will ensure I have a little thermos of coffee/tea and a mug as well as plenty of water and some healthy balanced snacks at my desk – usually a couple of pieces of fruit, some dried fruit and nuts, or even some lightly seasoned popped corn for the salty/crunchy cravings.
Hydration
Every time I go for a snack, I need to have finished my water bottle (16oz). this ensures I am hydrating enough throughout the day and curbs hunger cravings that are really thirst.
Snack Options and Portion Control
Have a bunch of healthy options and some fun bowls or dishes for them that are appropriately sized. For example, I love little glass baking bowls and will use one that holds roughly 2 Tbsp. for more energy-dense snacks like nuts and seeds. I might grab a cup-sized bowl for popped corn. Even if I am eating one of the snacks at my desk, I am sure to portion it out to avoid mindlessly munching on things.
Movement
It might sound silly, but sometimes I will make several trips downstairs just to get another few minutes of movement in during a snack break. I bring down my water bottle and some dishes. While tea water is heating, I make a trip up with my water and snacks but return for my tea. You can do this at your desk too, but the movement is as much about a break from my computer and space for me so I personally like the physical removal of myself from my workspace.
Here are some recipes I like to keep on hand to ensure the healthy snack is the easy option: