by Isabelle Esteves

Created on: January 07, 2013

It has happened to everyone, the afternoon slump. It feels like time to take a nap, and it's hard to get motivated to continue to go about the business of your day whether you are at work or trying to enjoy some well-earned time off.  The last thing you need at this point are carbs, a high-protein snack is what is called for.  If you are watching your weight, a snack under 200 calories will fit into most diet plans.  

Nuts 

Nuts are a favorite snack and high in protein as well. They are however, also high in calories, so it is important to keep that in mind and it is easy to mindlessly eat hundreds of calories. Today you can purchase 100-calorie snacks, including almonds dusted with chocolate and mixed nuts. Pistachios are delicious, and the amount of time it takes to pry them out of their shells helps you to control the amount that you eat. With most nuts, filling your palm makes an appropriate serving.

Nut butters

Peanut butter may be the most popular but it is not the only choice for a great high protein snack. It isn't just for kids either and the old favorite, ants on a log is a good option. For ants on a log take a piece of celery and fill it with peanut butter and then place a few raisins on the top. You can also use a few dark chocolate chips on top.  You can also throw a couple of spoons of nut butter in the microwave for a few seconds and then use it as a dip for fresh apple slices.

Cheese

Cheese is a portable tasty protein snack. Slices of sharp cheddar, Swiss or just about any cheese with a few whole wheat crackers are a good way to get your mojo back when the slump sets in. You can also opt for cottage cheese with some slices of fresh fruits or vegetables. 

Yogurt

A cup of yogurt with some fruits or vegetables is another inexpensive and easy to eat afternoon snack.

Leftover meat

If you have leftover chicken, turkey, beef or pork from dinner last night, it makes a great high protein snack today. It can be eaten plain, placed in a whole wheat wrap or brought to a whole new level with some condiments like savory jellies or chutneys.

Dips

Why not make yourself a dip with sour cream, yogurt or hummus. Combined with carrot sticks, celery, peppers or just about any veggie that you enjoy and you have a great snack.

There are also loads of high protein bars, beef jerky sticks and other prepackaged high protein snacks available.  When the 3 o'clock slump hits, be prepared to fight back with anyone of these delicious options.

Learn more about this author, Isabelle Esteves.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.