Two nutritional components to look for when it comes to smart snacking are protein and whole grains. Protein helps our bodies build and repair muscle tissue and helps you feel fuller, longer. This is partly because protein reduces your body’s level of the hunger hormone, ghrelin, and boosts levels of peptide YY, a hormone that makes you feel full. 

Whole grains are important because they contain all three parts of a grain: the bran, endosperm, and the germ. Among the many nutritional benefits of eating a whole grain snack is increased amounts of fiber. Fiber is not only important for keeping your digestive system clean but can also help increase that full, satisfying feeling you want from eating a snack. 

There’s no doubt that afternoon cravings can be stressful and can lead to less healthy, sugary choices. However, taking a few more minutes to choose smart snacks or, better yet, planning ahead can help you find snacks that keep you fuller, longer. Quick, on-the-go snack options like Kodiak Granola Bars are just a start.