On any given day as a planner there are a multitude of to-do lists running simultaneously. And amidst the seemingly endless lists of tasks, calls and appointments, we’re almost always missing the most important item; our own health. It happens far too often that we get so caught up in making sure everything and everyone else is taken care of that when the signs of hunger appear, we haven’t planned ahead and we’re too busy to make a healthy choice. So we pick up whatever is closest and fastest, usually resulting in a salty or sugary snack that’s far from what we really need.

While it seems like a quick fix at the time, we work long hours on a regular basis and those quick fixes can start to add up, taking a toll on our health, making it harder on our bodies to do what we love. We need energy and endurance to keep up with the demands of the industry and our unhealthy choices are working against us.

But you can rest easy knowing that all is not lost. It’s never too late to make your health a priority! Here’s something everyone can easily make time for; having healthy snacks on hand. Begin by making sure that on every to-do list you have a line item to make sure you pack healthy snacks. Let’s face it, site tours can run long, setup and teardown can extend further than planned, and this way you can ensure you’re always ready to make a healthy choice.

Here are some fantastic healthy snack options, most of which are non-perishable so they can live in your purse or event toolbox for an extended period of time so you’re always prepared.

• Single serving of raw, unsalted nuts: they’re a heart healthy source of Omega 3 and much more
• 1 apple: a great source of fiber so you can stay fuller longer (7 more health benefits of apples)
• Single serve peanut/nut butter packet: Justin’s nut butter has a great selection. Opt for Classic Almond or Classic Peanut as they each only have 2 ingredients to keep it healthy.
• A single serving of whole grain crackers: whole grain foods are packed with nutrients, just make sure the ingredient list says ‘whole grain’
• Individual packets of healthy mix-ins for water: make your water do double or triple duty. Products like Neuro Smart Energy not only provide an energy boost but also keep you hydrated longer

Healthy snacks are a terrific first step in making your health a priority because they’re small enough to be manageable but make a big enough impact to kick start more healthy habits. And before you know it, you’ll be rid of those afternoon sugar crashes that leave you scrambling for more energy, and on the road to living a longer, happier, and healthier life!

This is a guest post from Angel Hepp. Angel has held a variety of positions within the event industry over the past 10 years including design and execution of weddings, meetings, social events and more. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Sports/Entertainment/Event Management from the Denver campus of Johnson & Wales University and is currently working for a local event architecture firm. As an event professional and ViSalus promoter Angel has found the opportunity to not only improve the health of family and friends but her event peers in particular experiencing first-hand the benefit health can have on a successful event career.