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An Apple. 1 medium apple with peelDeborah Ory/Woman’s DayEating something sweet on an empty stomach always leaves me feeling a little weird — especially if I’m eating an apple. I chalk it up to the fact that apples, though low in calories, are super high in carbohydrates. Eating one when you’re hungry will likely offer an energy spike, but little else in the way of actual satiation. For best results, smear it with some almond butter or pair it with a slice of cheese to feel fuller longer.Ice Cream. Let’s be real: if you’re starving, you’re obviously going to eat the whole pint. And then you’re going to have a stomach ache, because dairy. And then you’re going to have to go to the bathroom, and things are going to get weird (No? Just me?). Jokes aside, registered dietitian Heather Steele says eating something like ice cream on an empty stomach usually isn’t the best idea. “The heavy sugar content that’s usually found in ice cream is probably going to leave your stomach upset, just like if you were to eat a bunch of candy.” Instead, Steele suggests a chocolate milk or something with more protein and a lower fat content to curb your cravings. As for the ice cream? Save it for after a real meal when you’re less likely to dive in spoon-first. Breads.Also chips, crackers, bagels, and any all-carb snacks, in general. Bready items like croissants or crackers will usually feel like a drop in the bucket (or that bottomless pit formerly known as your stomach) when all’s said and done. For an energy jolt that hits the spot, protein is usually your best bet. Steele says that heavily-processed snacks often have next to no fiber content. “Without that,” she explains, “you get a quick sugar rush, and then plummet very quickly.” If you’ve got bread on the brain, opt for a slice of whole-wheat bread with peanut butter and sliced bananas instead. Together, these foods make for aheftier snack. Spicy foods. GettyNoshing on somethingspicy when there’s not much else in your stomach is usually a bad idea, Steele explains. Without any real solids to cut the spice on, you’re more likely to experience digestive irritation or an upset stomach. “The spice that’s found in peppers … a lot of times that’s not digested very well. That burning you feel in your mouth? You’re going to feel it all the way through your stomach.” Save the ghost pepper salsa for more substantial meals, and opt for something simple and mild, instead.100 Calorie Packs. TargetThough they seem like the most direct route to a pick-me-up, these processed snacks are usually just nutrient-less treats hiding in disguise. Unfortunately, lots of folks deep in throes of hanger will reach for a 100 cal pack to curb cravings. As Steele tells it, “a snack should really serve as a small meal, and be bit more functional.” If your tank’s running on empty, reach for something with a bit more fuel instead. Trail mix, deli meat, or beef jerky can usually offer the sustainable spike you need to power through the next few tasks.Anything from Seamless.budget friendly fareThinkstock
