Eating Healthy From the Vending Machine

Vending machines are tempting, are they? All those candy bars and chips--sweet and salty snacks that are high in fat. These snacks are not healthy, but did you know that there are some things available in vending machines that are healthy for you to each when you're in a hurry and don't have time to leave the office? Here are some suggestions.

For a mid-morning snack you should avoid energy bars, muffins and pastries that are usually available in vending machines. They are high in fat and sugar and are filled with empty calories. You will digest them quickly and be starving an hour later. Instead, you should opt for whole grain fare like popcorn and/or whole wheat crackers. They are high in filling fiber, which takes a while to digest, so you'll feel satisfied until lunch.
If you don't have time to go out for lunch, resist the temptation to select potato chips and candy for lunch. These simple carb-packed snacks will cause your blood sugar to soar resulting in a quick pick-me-up that will be followed by a crash in your system as your body attempts to regular sugar levels. Instead, try a package of whole wheat crackers with peanut butter or cheese. This combination will include complex carbohydrates and proteins which will convert to sugar more slowly than those simple carbs.
If you need something to hold you over until dinner time, don't eat a candy bar. Also avoid high sugar soda pop and sports drinks. Opt instead for a package of mixed nuts. They are high in monounsaturated fats--the good kind of fats. You'll digest them slowly and feel fuller longer.

So, if you are sensible and careful in your choices, you can eat healthy from a vending machine. Don't make it a habit, but choose wisely when you do.