High Protein Snacks for Winter and Fall

By Ginger Cochran, MS ,RDN ,CDCES, EP-ACSM

When it comes to enjoying outdoor activities during the fall and winter months, keeping your energy levels up is crucial. Whether you're hitting the slopes for a day of skiing, snowboarding, or engaging in other cold-weather activities, proper nutrition is essential to make the most of your adventure. 

In this blog, we'll explore why snacking while engaging in outdoor activities is important, particularly during cold months. We'll also provide you with ten snack ideas that combine carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats to keep you energized.

Why Snacking is Essential for Outdoor Activities in Cold Months

1. Boost Energy Levels: Cold weather and outdoor activities can drain your energy faster than usual. Snacking helps maintain your stamina and focus throughout the day.

2. Maintain Body Temperature: The cold weather can lower your body temperature, causing your body to burn more calories to stay warm. Snacking can help replenish those calories.

3. Carbohydrates for Fuel: Carbohydrates are your body's primary source of energy. In colder conditions, your body burns more carbohydrates to generate heat, so having a carb-rich snack is essential.

4. Protein for Sustained Energy: Including protein in your snacks can help stabilize your blood sugar levels and provide a more sustained energy source.

5. Healthy Fats for Insulation: Healthy fats can help insulate your body and keep you warm in the cold. They also provide a slow-burning source of energy.

10 Cold Weather Outdoor Snack Ideas

1. Trail Mix: A combination of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and dark chocolate provides a mix of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein. Trail mix is easy to pack and has enough protein, healthy fat, and fiber with complex carbohydrates to keep your energy pumping. 

2. Protein Smoothies: Designer Wellness Protein Smoothies are the perfect on-the-go squeeze packet of high-quality protein, medium chain triglycerides for extra energy, packed with antioxidant-rich fruits, and low in sugar. These packs come in a variety of flavors and do not need to be refrigerated, so they are perfect when playing outside. Nut Butter and Banana Sandwich: Spread almond or peanut butter on whole-grain bread and add banana slices for a filling and energy-boosting snack.

3. Hard-Boiled Eggs: Eggs are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, and they're easy to pack. Plus, whole eggs contain vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin. Eating eggs regularly can help you keep your vitamin D level good when sunshine is sparse during winter. 

4. Hummus and Veggie Sticks: Hummus provides a balance of protein and healthy fats, while carrots, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks are packed with vitamins and minerals.

5. Protein Breakfast Cookies:  Prepare a batch of the Protein Breakfast Cookies. These cookies contain Designer Egg plus nuts, seeds, and dried fruit to give you the perfect high-protein, high-energy snack while out in the elements. 

6. Cheese and Whole-Grain Crackers: Who doesn’t love cheese? Cheese offers protein and healthy fats, and whole-grain crackers provide a nice salty, crunchy carbohydrate. If you’re sensitive to lactose, choose harder cheeses like sharp cheddar, which contains less lactose. 

7. Half Peanut Butter and Jelly: Peanut butter, or any nut butter, gives an excellent amount of fat protein to sustain your energy boost energy, plus it’s easy to pack and go. Choose higher-fiber bread that contains at least 3g of fiber per serving for optimal blood sugar and energy balance. 

8. Protein Balls: Protein Balls are the easiest way to go for balanced bite-sized energy on the go. Try these Tahini Caramel Protein Balls using Vanilla Designer Egg 

9. Nut Butter Pack and Apple: Travel-size nut butters are an amazing snack to keep on hand that gives you protein and fat in an easy package. Pair it with an apple, and you have the perfect pair of high fiber carb and high healthy fat. 

10. Shaker Bottle Protein To-Go: What to take your favorite Designer Wellness Protein Powder with you? Just add your favorite milk and Designer Protein Powder to our shaker bottle and have it on hand ready to mix and drink when you are. 

Bottom Line

Snacking while engaging in outdoor activities during winter is not just a matter of convenience; it's necessary to fuel your adventures and keep your body warm and energized. By choosing snacks that combine carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, you can optimize your performance and enjoyment during winter sports like skiing or snowboarding. Designer Wellness makes this easy with Protein Smoothies, high-quality protein powders, and easy recipes to keep you fueled. Remember to pack these snack ideas in your backpack and stay safe and energized while embracing the beauty of the winter season.