LanaSnacks_01-23-14_MAINThere is no question, dance teachers have LONG work days. If not on our feet teaching, we are choreographing, scheduling rehearsals, researching music or performance ideas, and focusing on the upcoming season. In all our “busy-ness,” it is easy to forget to eat, and before we know it we are cranky, out of energy, and not able to concentrate. Usually, the busiest and most energy demanding part of our day is during dinner time, so it is essential we teachers have healthy snacks on hand to feul us for our teaching hours.

Here are 5 delicious, healthy, and filling snacks that I eat when I teach, and recommend for my students to pack in their dance bags.

1. Edamame

Low in fat and calories, these yummy soybeans are a nutrition powerhouse high in protein and fiber. I like to eat them warm with a little bit of salt for extra flavor.

2. Hummus and Raw Veggies

I love this tasty chickpea spread. Rich in protein and fiber, hummus is traditionally eaten with pita bread but I like to pair it with baby carrots, tomatoes, celery, or bell peppers to add an extra punch of vitamins to my healthy snack.

3. Sliced apples and low fat cheese

If it’s true that “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” I am set for life because I eat apples all the time. This crunchy fruit is packed with phyto-nutrients and anti-oxidants and the cheese gives my body calcium and protein. I like to buy the individually packaged light string cheese or babybel light cheese because I can easily throw one of them and an apple in my bag and go.

4. Low Sodium Lunchmeat Turkey Slices

This ultra convenient source of protein tastes so yummy. I love to eat a serving or two of turkey slices by themselves while teaching when I start to feel really hungry. I know the protein will help curb my hunger and maintain my energy so I can last until I get home to eat dinner.

5. Clif and Luna Bars

Both of these bars are packed with such an amazing amount of vitamins, minerals, protein, and more. They come in a variety of flavors and have a great chewy granola-bar like consistency. Just be careful because most of these bars contain nuts and you may need to eat them away from your students because of severe allergies.

These 5 tasty snacks are my favorite because they each have a healthy mix of protein, carbs, and fat. It’s also a plus that they are fast to prepare, pack easily, and don’t need plates or utensils to enjoy. I hope you like them as I do, and that they will help you feel fueled and energized to last through your day at the studio.

Until next time, teach, inspire, and grow.