by Kendall Blair

Created on: July 11, 2008   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

When you think of eating on-the-go your mind usually goes to gas station stacks or fast food. Not to say that both of these places do not have tasty items, but if you are health conscious steer clear! Most choices at a fast food restaurant will consume your entire allotted calorie intake for the day. Snacks that you would usually pick up at a gas station such as chips and colas are unhealthy at best. So what are some healthy snacks that will give you an energy boost without weighing you down or taking too much prep time? Here are the Top 10 Healthy On-The-Go Snacks for the weary traveler;

1. Peanuts- these are the number one quick fix snack. Just one handful and you are rejuvenated. Peanuts are high in protein, Vitamin E, and antioxidants. Best of all, they are able to fill you up quickly. Just make sure to grab raw or shelled peanuts and stay away from alternative choices such as honey roasted.

2. Jerky- another way to pack on the protein is to snack on jerky. There are various types of jerky such as beef and deer. Jerky low in fat, calories, and carbohydrates. It can be stored just about anywhere which makes it a great on-the-go snack.

3. Trail Mix- a healthy trail mix can be prepared at home with just a few simple ingredients. It can then be stored in small snack sized containers for quick on-the-run snacks. Make your own and enjoy your favorite sweet and salty flavors.

4. Pretzels- this salty snack gives you the crunch that you are sometimes craving. It is a healthy choice and somehow it gives you the great satisfaction that comes along with the chomping action.

5. Popcorn- here is a great quick fix for an empty stomach. There is a new 94% fat free mix that is all of the taste and almost none of the fat. Popcorn is perfect for on-the-go snacking. It is easy to eat in the car as it does not leave behind a mess (especially this reduced fat mix, the butter is simply not dripping off).

6. Banana- fruit comes to mind, but a banana has a hard peel that is difficult to penetrate. A banana can fit into a purse or backpack without being smashed. It doesn't have to stay cold to maintain its taste. So it can be left in the car for quite some time before spoiling.

7. Yogurt- this adds a fun twist in your mouth. Yogurt is packed with calcium, dairy, and protein. All of which will give you an energy boost during a long day. Yogurt will fit conveniently into your hand while you are on-the-go. Just remember to pack a spoon.

8. Pistachios- all nuts are high in fat but it only takes a few of them to fill you up. Plus when on-the-go this snack gives you something to do with your hands. There is the common hand-to-mouth distraction that we all face when driving. With pistachios you are participating, but ending up with far less garbage actually in the mouth!

9. Sunflower Seeds- these seeds have the same concept as pistachios. The outer shell provides an activity as well as the salty taste. Sunflower seeds are packed with Vitamin E, magnesium, and selenium.

10. Dried Fruit- there are many nutritional benefits that come along with snacking on dried fruit. Dried fruit is usually high in fiber and complex carbohydrates. These benefits along with the vitamins and minerals makes dried fruit the perfect on-the-go snack to round off our list!

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