Throughout the day it is easy to snack at our desks. Munching can help keep us awake, ward of boredom and provide slight diversion. But the combination of munching and sitting all day can have dire effects. Our waistline can increase and our metabolism can decrease. It is easy to say that you will stop snacking all together, but in reality snacking is inevitable, but it does not have to be detrimental. Choosing the right kind of snacks can fulfill your desire to munch without adding much to your waistline. Here are some easy healthy alternatives to vending machine snacks.

Peanuts- A cup or so of peanuts will contain a good amount of protein, which will give you energy and fill you up. Peanuts are also packed with vitamins and minerals like: vitamin E, vitamin B-6, calcium, iron and zinc. Peanuts also contain the mono-unsaturated fatty acids that help to boost good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol. They are an all around good choice for snacking.

Grapes- This succulent fruit is perfect for eating at your desk. Off the vine, they are easy to grab and pop in your mouth without any mess. Grapes are full of resveratrol, a natural compound that studies have shown helpful in fighting off such things as colon cancer, heart disease, prostate cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. Resveratrol has also been found to reduce the risk of a stroke. Grapes are also high in vitamin C, A, and K. Grapes provide a good source of potassium and iron, although the iron is more concentrated in raisins.

Snap Peas- These snappy little vegetables are healthy and clean. They can easily sit in a container on your desk without causing any mess. Peas are low in calories, have zero cholesterol and offer a good amount of insoluble fiber. Peas, in the pod, are high in Folic Acid. Folic Acid is essential to any woman who is trying to get pregnant because the more Folic Acid present in the mother’s body, the less likely the baby is to suffer from defects in the womb. Peas are also a good source of vitamin K, A, and C.