Eating a healthy high quality snack before or after a workout can help replenish energy, repair muscles, and provide important nutrients for overall health and wellness. However, finding affordable, high-quality snack options can sometimes be a challenge, especially for gymgoers on a budget.
Criteria for selection and a quick disclaimer
The list below was compiled using 2021 USDA statistics with an average monthly spending range between $150-$300 for only one individual. Your mileage will vary depending on your diet, goals, and food preference. The information shared below is strictly for informational purposes and should not be considered advisement. Please consult with the appropriate professional(s) if you have additional questions. With that said, here are 11 tasty and budget-friendly snack ideas for anyone looking to fuel their workouts:
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1. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt with berries and nuts. Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and calcium, and adding a handful of berries and a sprinkle of nuts will add some extra flavor and nutrients.
- Siggi’s® Icelandic Strained Nonfat Yogurt
- Wallaby Organic Aussie Greek Whole Milk Yogurt
- Chobani Greek Yogurt
2. Apple Slices With Peanut Butter
Apple slices with peanut butter are a must-try. Apples are a good source of fiber and vitamins, and pairing them with a spoonful of peanut butter will add some protein and healthy fats to the mix.
- Bare Fruit Naturally Baked Crunchy, Fuji & Reds Apple Chips, 3.4 oz, Black
- GERBS Dried New England Apple Slices 1 LB
- 3 Pack Trader Joe’s Freeze Dried Fuji Apple Slices 1.2oz
Cottage cheese
3. Cottage Cheese With Fruit
Moving on, Cottage cheese is another high-protein option, and adding some chopped fruit will add some sweetness and extra nutrients.
- Friendship Dairy Cottage Cheese
- Organic Valley Small Curd Organic Cottage Cheese
- Good Culture Cottage Cheese
- EDUPET Green Valley Creamery Organic Lactose-Free Cottage Cheese
Roasted chickpeas
4. Roasted Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, and roasting them with a sprinkle of your favorite spices makes for a crunchy, satisfying snack.
Energy bars
5. Energy Bars
Energy bars can be a convenient way to get a boost of nutrients before or after a workout, and there are many budget-friendly options available. Just be sure to read the label and choose a bar with quality ingredients.
- CLIF BARS – Energy Bars – Chocolate Chip
- KIND Bar Minis, Variety Pack
- Kate’s Real Food Organic Energy Bars
6. Turkey Slices
Turkey slices on whole-grain crackers are absolutely delicious. Turkey is a lean source of protein, and pairing it with whole-grain crackers will add some complex carbs to help fuel your workouts.
- Applegate, Natural Oven Roasted Turkey Breast Family Size, 10.5oz
- Applegate, Organic Hickory Smoked Uncured Turkey Bacon, 8oz
7. Hummus With Veggies
Hummus is made from chickpeas, so it’s a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. Pair it with some crunchy veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or cucumbers for a tasty, nutritious snack.
- Cedar’s Organic Roasted Red Pepper Hommus
- 365 by Whole Foods Market, Hummus, Original
- Ithaca, Fresh Lemon Dill Hummus, 10 Oz
8. Bananas With Almond Butter
Bananas with almond butter are amazingly good. Bananas are a good source of potassium, which can help with muscle function and recovery, and pairing them with a spoonful of almond butter will add some healthy fats and protein. The choice of almond butter is actually quite simple.
Almond Butter
Almond butter is a good source of several essential nutrients, including monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, magnesium, and protein. Almond butter is high in protein and fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. This may help you eat fewer calories overall and potentially aid in weight loss. Almond butter is also a popular alternative to peanut butter for those with peanut allergies. It can also be a good choice for those following a vegan or plant-based diet.
- Base Culture Almond Butter
- Wild Friends Foods Almond Butter Variety Pack
- Justin’s Maple Almond Butter
9. Energy Balls
Energy balls are a great way to get a quick boost of energy before or after a workout, and they’re easy to make at home using a combination of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and other ingredients.
- Frooze Balls Choc Caramel Peanut Butter
- Betty Lou’s Energy Balls
- 365 by Whole Foods Market, Protein Chewy Bites
10. Protein Smoothie
A protein smoothie can be a quick and easy way to refuel after a workout, and there are many budget-friendly protein powders available. Just be sure to also add some healthy fats and carbs to balance out the nutrients.
- Fuel For Fire – Strawberry Banana (12 Pack) Fruit & Protein Smoothie Squeeze Pouch
- STONYFIELD FARM Strawberry Banana Smoothie, 6 Fl Oz (Pack of 4)
11. Hard-Boiled Eggs
Finally, this one is a tried and true favorite. Hard-boiled eggs are an easy recommendation for making this list. Eggs are classically an affordable source of protein, and hard-boiling them makes for an easy, portable snack.
Conclusion
Overall, there are many tasty and budget-friendly snack options for gymgoers looking to fuel their workouts. By choosing high-quality, nutrient-dense options, you can support your health and wellness goals while staying within your budget. So what do you think? Are there any foods that you’d recommend for this list or for a gym buddy to try?
