Healthy Snacks to Fight the Afternoon Blahs

It's three o'clock. You're sleepy. You can't concentrate. Your energy level is at an all-time low. All you can think about is that candy bar in the back of your desk drawer or taking another hit of caffeine. The afternoon blahs have hit.

Healthy snacks to cure the snack attack

Microwaved low-fat popcorn

Saltine or whole wheat crackers with peanut butter

Fresh fruits, either plain or with cheese

One half of a whole wheat bagel topped with peanut butter or hummus

One cup of low-fat yogurt with two tablespoons whole grain cereal

Carrot and pepper strips with low-fat salad dressing

Sunflower or pumpkin seeds

Mixed nuts and dried fruit

Fresh fruit yogurt smoothie

Avoid shovel-eating. Instead of a pile of potato chips overloaded with calories and fat, try an orange for a quick energy fix and vitamin C for later. Whole-grain foods, such as a muffin, stick to your ribs longer than a candy bar and will help you avoid the post-sugar energy plunge.