I recently started playing golf, and I'm obsessed. At first I didn't consider golf to be a physically demanding sport, but after playing it for a while, I realized that being fit is a necessity in order to have the strength and stamina to walk and play 18 holes. It's a long day out on the course, and I've discovered that what I snack on during a round can improve my mood and lower my scores. Even tour pros carry their favorite golf snacks with them while they play so that they aren't distracted by their empty stomach during their match.
Here are the best golf snacks to eat during your next round so you're energized, clear-minded, and ready to play your best. Keep these in your bag, and you'll maintain your focus through the last putt.
Energy Bars
There's a wide range of energy bars on the market, each boasting impressive levels of protein and fiber that will keep you full and focused throughout the day. No matter which bar you choose, keep an eye on the sugar content: a high amount of sugar can lead to a crash, which is the worst thing that can happen when you're trying to sink that birdie putt.
Jerky
Whether it's beef or turkey, jerky is the high-protein, low-fat snack you've been missing. Though you may think of the gas-station staple as being filled with nitrites and sodium, newer brands such as Think Jerky have cut down on the unhealthy stuff and maximized flavor for a tasty snack that's easy to carry around the course.
Granola
Granola is known as a "healthy cereal" due to its many nutritional benefits, including heart-healthy fiber and complex carbohydrates from whole grains that keep you full. It's the perfect snack to throw in a baggie and stick in your golf bag. It's totally customizable, but make sure you watch out for added sugar and fats that can turn your superfood snack into a sugary cereal.
My favorite granola recipes include sweet nutella banana granola, vegan granola, and easy 4-ingredient granola.
Hard Boiled Egg
Hard boiled eggs are protein- and vitamin-packed, bite-size snacks that are easy to make, which makes them perfect to pack and eat in between shots. Just don't mistake one for your golf ball!
#SpoonTip: You can make hard boiled eggs using your oven for a no-boil recipe that cooks eggs to perfection.
Fruit
Fruits like apples and bananas are great choices because they're portable, hydrating, full of vitamins, and a source of natural sugar to avoid that nasty crash. My golf course even has a cooler of apples on the course so you can grab one between holes.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
This childhood favorite is also a favorite of PGA Pros, due to its powerful combination of sugar, protein, B vitamins, iron, and zinc. Try using almond butter, honey, or multigrain bread to add an additional health boost to this nostalgic snack.
Before your next round, throw these snacks in your bag alongside your golf balls, tees, and ball markers. You can refuse the crackers and cookies offered at the halfway house easily because you'll know you have plenty of delicious and filling snacks to keep you on par.