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Mortgage brokers are a varied bunch, but there are a few things just about all of them have in common: They're busy, they're time-conscious and they're constantly on the move. We've compiled ten of the best snack foods for brokers based on portability, taste (no wheatgrass on this list!) and health benefits to keep you in peak performance:
For Stamina, try eating...
Cheap, convenient and packed with protein - cook a bunch, store them in the fridge and grab one when you need a quick snack. Eggs contain vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids, but they also contain a fair bit of cholesterol and are best avoided by those on a low-cholesterol diet.
2. Roasted Soy Nuts
Roasted soy nuts make a nice break from the usual peanuts and cashews. They're also high in protein, so are great for staving off hunger when you're on the go.
Muesli bars are convenient and can offer a great source of energy and protein, but look for bars that have fewer than 800 kilojoules and make sure you don’t eat too many of them, since they can be loaded with added sugars.
Greek yogurt has around the same amount of protein as cottage cheese, but with fewer calories and less sodium. Flavoured yogurt can contain loads of added sugar, so try buying the plain stuff and eating it with fresh fruit.
For Mental Clarity, try eating...
5. Blueberries
Animal studies have found that blueberries help protect the brain from oxidative stress and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions like dementia. Studies have also shown that diets rich in blueberries significantly improved both the learning capacity and motor skills of aging rats, making them mentally equivalent to much younger rats. Nutritionists recommend aiming for around a cup a day of fresh, frozen, or freeze-dried berries.
6. Avocado
Avocados are often toted as one of the world's healthiest fruits, containing 25 essential nutrients, Vitamin E, folic acid, copper and iron - and their high fiber content is great for your digestive system. Best of all? They come packaged in their own serving dish. Cut one in half and scoop out the green gold with some rice crackers for minimal fuss.
7. Pumpkin seeds
A single handful of pumpkin seeds a day provides you with your recommended daily amount of zinc, a mineral that’s essential for memory and thinking skills.
For an energy boost, try...
Bananas
Bananas provide potassium, an electrolyte that helps maintain normal nerve and muscle function. Unlike some nutrients, the body doesn’t store potassium for long periods of time and your potassium levels can drop in times of stress. The sugar contained in bananas is easily digested and offers a quick and effective energy boost.
Chocolate
You didn’t expect to see this one, did you? Studies show that chocolate can elevate your energy levels thanks to bioactive compounds called tyramine and phenylethylamine. Studies have also claimed eating chocolate improves anaemia, awakens the appetite, aids in digestion and improves longevity. Chocolate contains sugar and caffeine along with fat and calories though, so consume in moderation. When possible, opt for dark chocolate or raw cacao for the highest source of antioxidants.
Water
You’ve probably heard that the body can sometimes confuse thirst with hunger, leading you to reach for snacks when really all you need is a trip to the water cooler. This vital liquid makes it possible for your system to digest, absorb and transport the nutrients from the food you eat and when you’re dehydrated, your cells receive nutrients for energy less efficiently, which can lead to fatigue. The traditional ‘eight glasses a day’ recommendation has been contested, but aim to drink at least four or five.
