subject: Selecting Healthy Vending Machine Options [print this page] If your only option for food is from a vending machine, all is not lost. There are many healthy vending machine options that you can eat without ruining your health or blowing your diet. Some options will only be found if you have access to a refrigerated vending machine like those often found in hospital cafeterias, while others are usually found in most vending machines.
There are two types of refrigerated vending machines, one that typically sells drinks such as soda, juice and bottled water and the less common one which sells cold snacks. In the later type, you may find sandwiches, yogurt, milk or even fruit. When choosing snacks from that machine look for sandwiches that are made with low fat meats, nonfat milk and low fat sugar free yogurt. For many people an apple or orange could be a great choice from this machine. You might even find a few veggie snacks in these machines.
Vending machines are also used to sell drinks. Many drinks are loaded with sugar so be careful in your choice. Water is always the best choice, so look for a cold bottled water from the machine. Diet sodas contain artificial sweeteners that cause problems for some people. Regular sodas have lots of sugar. Fruit juice sold in vending machines is often super sized and contains a hefty amount of sugar.
If you want a sweet from a vending machine and fruit is not one of your options, look for unfrosted animal crackers or graham crackers. Trail mix and low fat granola bars are also an option, just keep in mind that they can be very high in calories. Gummy candies or hard candies and mints are lower in calories than high fat chocolate bars.
Low fat popcorn is a healthy alternative for a salty snack. Anything that is baked is better than anything fried. Look for baked chips, crackers and other salty snacks, including pretzels. Plain or salted nuts, eaten in moderation can give you protein and some healthy oils needed for the body.
Vending machines often offer only a limited choice for healthy snacks. In addition, you will pay more for snacks from a vending machine than other places. If you know you will be in a situation where the only place to get food is through a vending machine, consider packing your own healthy snack or lunch. You will save money and have many more options.
You will healthy vending machine options in most vending machines. Since the snacks are often behind glass, you may not be able to read a nutrition label until you make your purchase. If you find that you have purchased a snack that is high in fat, sugar or calories, consider sharing that snack with a friend or saving a portion for a snack later in the day.
