Food is fuel. In our fast-paced, pre-packaged world, it is too easy to fill our tanks with junk – but we know how that goes. We get tired, we slump, we don’t think or move at our peak. It’s important for athletes – and anyone, for that matter – to put high quality fuel into their bodies. Here are our picks for the perfect pre game snacks for folks on the go.

When you need nutrition with grab-and-go convenience, try:

  • PB&H. Simply swap out the jelly for honey (hence the H), use whole grain bread, and you have yourself a snack with healthy fat, protein, and complex carbs. This will keep you (or your child) fueled up for the game. It takes two seconds to make, and you can stow it in a bag until you’re ready to eat.
  • Homemade trail mix. Healthy snacks for athletes that you can make ahead are gold for busy people. Make up a batch of your own trail mix with nuts, pumpkin and/or sunflower seeds, and dried fruit. Add a handful of dark chocolate chips too or a few dark chocolate-covered pretzels (dark chocolate helps you perform better during workouts…. Science is sweet!).
  • Veggies and hummus. Dip carrots and/or celery in hearty hummus and add quality carbohydrates like whole wheat pita, crackers, or bread.
  • Low-fat cottage cheese. Pick up a single-serving container (or better yet, pack your own in a reusable container to save plastic – and money). Pair it with tuna (single serving in pouches is super convenient), fruit, or veggies.
  • FATTY hickory-smoked meat sticks. Pick up a 2 oz FATTY smoked meat stick. It’s a bigger, better version of the traditional meat stick. Packed with two times the protein and made with all-natural ingredients, it will help get you going – and keep you going. Despite its name, the FATTY smoked meat stick is not fatty; it’s a lean source of quality protein. Athletes should avoid fatty foods before a game. Add a healthy carb, like a banana, apple, grapes, or melon slices or whole wheat crackers and cheese for optimal nutrition. 

We know you’re on the go, but that doesn’t mean you can’t fuel up with quality foods. With just a little planning, you can have a great stock of healthy pre game snacks ready when you are.

>> Stock up now by shopping Sweetwood Smokehouse online