Snacking Smartly for Muscle Gain

How to snack smart for muscle-building on the go

If your goal is to build more muscle, you’ll know that nutrition is key. Still, finding the time to fuel our bodies best can be challenging, especially if you’re always on the move. Happily, we have a few ideas to help you keep on track with the best snacks to help you sculpt muscle on the go.

The powerhouse trio
If you’re eating with firming up in mind, you’ll want to fill your plate with the big three – a combination of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Unlike simple carbohydrates that cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, the complex type provides a more sustained and stable source of energy, keeping you fuller for longer and helping you to power through your workout. Good examples of complex carbohydrates are grains, legumes (like beans, peas and lentils) and fibre-rich fruits and veggies.

Prep your power snacks
Right, so the big three is what you’re after. Now use this knowledge to go beyond meal planning and use it to your advantage when you choose your snacks or eat on the run. Good examples that include all three macros include apple slices with almond butter; wholegrain crackers topped with cottage cheese or turkey and avocado slices. Another winner is overnight chia seed pudding (the chia seeds are packed with omega 3s) made with almond milk and topped with fresh berries or granola.

Ultimately, the secret to successful “smart snacking” is preparation. Yes, we know your week is wild, so it’s all the more reason to take a moment to prep a few muscle-friendly snacks. This way, you’ll always have readily available options that will prevent you from grabbing something that isn’t in line with your healthy eating goals.

Stock up on smarter options
Don’t have time to meal prep or worry about getting the perfect mix of macronutrients all in one snack? Fair enough. You’re busy. In this case, next time you go shopping, fill your basket with a mix of healthy snacks you actually enjoy eating. There’s no point in buying those celery sticks if you’re going to leave them lying in the fridge in favour of something more tempting. This way, when you need to grab and go, you’ll be fully stocked up on tasty, better-for-you options that will prevent you from picking up that greasy doughnut while you’re out and about.

To stay on track, opt for portable, single-serving options that prioritise protein and keep your cravings in mind. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, consider snacks like Greek yoghurt pots or protein bars that don’t contain added sugar. Prefer a savoury snack? Mini cheese portions or hummus pots should do the trick. You also can’t go wrong with packets of trail mix or nuts like almonds.

Pop into Protein House
Another way to snack savvily? Head to Protein House! We love their Peanut Butter Protein Balls that serve up a whopping 20 grams of protein per ball and they’re just the right size to pop into your handbag. Another top pick is their decadent White Chocolate Macadamia Protein Cookies. Each cookie contains all the macros you’re looking for – protein (a solid 15 grams) as well as carbs and healthy fat. The same can be said for their Vegan Sweet Potato Brownies. It’s also contains the muscle-building big three including 10 grams of protein per brownie. What’s not to love?

Choose wisely and win!
If you’re on a quest for a leaner, more toned physique, don’t let your eating plan become derailed by mindless snacking. You can grab and go, but if you empower yourself with smart snacking strategies, you’ll be fuelling your body for success!