Introduction: Remote Work & The Evening “Bhook” Trap
Remote work has its perks—flexibility, no commute, and the comfort of home. But let’s be honest: it also brings along unpredictable snack cravings, especially in the late afternoon.
Around 4 or 5 PM, when the mind starts wandering and energy dips, that irresistible thought creeps in: “Let me grab a packet of chips or some fried snack with tea.” And just like that, we fall into the junk food loop.
But what if we told you this habit is quietly stealing your energy, affecting your digestion, and messing with your long-term health?
Why Evening Cravings Hit Harder in WFH Culture
When you’re working remotely:
Physical movement is minimal, leading to boredom-eating.
You're just steps away from the kitchen.
Stress and screen fatigue can trigger emotional snacking.
Lack of a structured routine causes irregular meal times.
This results in unhealthy snacking behaviors that go unnoticed until they start showing on your skin, weight, or sleep cycle.
Ditch the Junk, Embrace the Real Stuff
Instead of grabbing that namkeen, biscuit packet, or sugary tea combo—build a smarter snacking plate. Here’s what works and why:
1. Roasted Makhana (Fox Nuts): Light, Crunchy, and Surprisingly Filling
Makhana is an Ayurveda-approved snack that’s:
Low in calories
High in protein
Packed with antioxidants and natural magnesium
Roast them lightly with ghee, sprinkle some rock salt or peri-peri masala, and you have a snack that's light on the stomach but big on satisfaction.
2. Fruits: The Natural Energy Boosters
Why go for packaged sugar when fruits offer:
Natural sweetness
Fiber that keeps you full longer
Vitamins and hydration (especially during hot months)
Go for a bowl of seasonal fruits—mangoes, watermelon, apples, or papaya. Or even mix chopped fruits with a few nuts for added texture and protein.
3. Chickpea Salad or Sprouts Chaat
Quick to prep and rich in:
Iron, zinc, and protein
Gut-friendly fiber
Satiety that lasts for hours
Sprouts and chaat hit the spot and are far better than anything fried or packaged.
Make It a Routine, Not a Restriction
This isn’t about banning your favorite snacks forever. It’s about creating default healthy choices that your body starts craving once it feels the difference.
Here’s how you can make the switch stick:
Prep your snack plate after lunch so it's ready by evening.
Keep junk out of sight—if it’s not in the kitchen, you won't eat it.
Pair your healthy snack with a 10-minute break or some light stretches.
Why It Matters in the Long Run
Eating oily, spicy junk in the evening may not show consequences immediately. But over time, it can lead to:
Acidity and bloating
Low energy before dinner
Weight gain and poor metabolism
Higher sugar cravings later at night
Whereas mindful evening snacking keeps your blood sugar stable, helps digestion, and sets the tone for a lighter dinner and deeper sleep.
Conclusion: Healthy Snacking is Smart Snacking
If you’re blessed with the comfort of working from home, use it to build better food habits. It doesn’t mean boring food—it means feeling good after you eat, instead of sluggish or guilty.
So the next time that “bhookh” hits, go for makhana, fruits, or a homemade healthy plate. Your body, mind, and energy levels will thank you—not just today, but in the long run.
Looking for more WFH health hacks?
Visit aarogyaabharat.com for real, actionable health and lifestyle guides.
