What's on the menu in your office drawer?

Sukanya Ghosh makes a list of some healthy low-calorie snacks to stock for a long busy trying day at work

Sukanya Ghosh makes a list of some healthy low-calorie snacks to stock for a long busy trying day at work

Nuts
A handful of nuts are a great snack. You can combine walnuts, peanuts, raisins, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds. Sunflower seeds are an excellent source of vitamin E, the body's primary fat-soluble antioxidant. It is a rich source of magnesium, which is necessary for healthy bones and energyu00a0 production. About two-thirds of the magnesium in the human body is found in our bones. Also, half a cup of sesame seeds contains 3 times more calcium than half cup of whole milk.
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Roasted chana, roasted bhel
(or murmura, as some would call it), and roasted khakras are all healthy dry teatime snacks that you can store in your personal space at work. Pull the box out whenever you feel like snacking. Roasted chana (the desi variety) is rich in fibre content. Another healthy snack is the makhana. These are very rich in iron and calcium content besides high dietary fiber. Simply roast them in a drop of ghee and toss salt before you pack it into an airtight bottle. It is also helps those with constipation problem.

Popcorn
This wonderful snack can be prepared in just a couple of minutes and goes great with a movie. Popcorn is not only healthy, but filling too. The reason popcorn is so filling is the amount of fibre that it contains. Plus, popcorn is also a low calorie snack if you choose to make it without cheese.

Soy crackers or dry roasted soy nuts
Soya nuts are an ideal vegetarian snack, naturally high in protein and low in saturated fats, they are also low in salt and especially crunchy. A useful source of protein for vegetarians and those trying to restrict carbohydrates in their diet, and being rich in isoflavones they have additional benefits for heart and hormonal health. Soy crackers that have been roasted can be found easily and stored in an airtight container in your office drawer.

Cereal bars
Seed bars and food bars packed full of nutritious such as oats, rye, sunflower seeds, hemp seeds and buckwheat make for great drawer snacks. They are easy to stash in the office cupboard, your lunchbox, briefcases, handbags and glove compartments too.