15 energy-boosting snacks for weary IT pros

Walnuts to cut down on distracting cravings

Nuts in general are great snacks, but the walnut in particular is a great source for Omega-3 fatty acids.

According to scientists at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania, eating 6 to 7 walnuts a day can help scavenge almost every disease-causing free radical from your body. You don't actually like taking sick days, do you?

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Fried grasshoppers instead of potato chips

If you need to persuade your office manager to stock up on bugs, point out it's what people in at least 113 countries munch on. That includes China, which is where everybody who's anybody is sourcing their hardware these days.

Protein, which helps the brain develop and keeps it running, is something grasshoppers have lots of -- and these bugs also are lower in cholesterol than pork or beef. Just don't look 'em in the eye when you pop 'em in your mouth.

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Grapefruit to keep you hydrated and energetic

Not only does grapefruit have a good dose of Vitamin C, it's also 91% water. Hydration is the key to staying awake through that next conference call.

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Blueberries for your memory fix

Incredibly high in antioxidants and important nutrients like vitamin C, blueberries can improve short-term memory, according to a recent study.

In fact, in 2010 the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry published a report that showed those who drank blueberry juice every day for two months showed significant improvement in memory and learning tests.

So say goodbye to Apple Watch haptic reminders and hello to blueberry smoothies.

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Papaya for energy boosting

Feeling laggardly? Instead of that third cup of coffee, munch on some papaya slices instead. This energy-boosting fruit is brimming with vitamin C, and eating just one medium papaya fulfills 224% of your daily needs. Plus, you'll look gorgeous while snacking, since this superfruit promotes healthy hair and complexion.

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Whole grains when you need carb-loading energy fixes

You need carbohydrates in your daily diet, and whole grains have the added benefit of lowering the risks of heart disease and cancer... which you just can't say for donuts.

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Eggs cut down on your (real) sick days

The humble egg is actually one of the most nutritious foods on the planet. They improve energy and your immune system, are chock-full of good fats and proteins, and contain choline, a nutrient associated with lower levels of anxiety.

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Tomatoes for lowering your stress

Having a bad day at work? Eat a tomato, and you'll feel better.

According to Medical News Today, there are various health benefits to tomatoes. A great source of vitamins A, C, and folic acid as well as chock full of antioxidants, tomatoes have been proven to lower blood pressure and help stave off depression.

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Tofu for that stress headache

Besides being a great, low-calorie source of protein, the isoflavones found in soy can prevent migraines, reduce PMS symptoms, and regulate blood sugar.

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Kimchi for stress-induced ulcers

First, kimchi goes with, in, or on almost anything. Second, it's a spicy food that actually helps with digestion, prevents peptic ulcers, and promotes a healthy brain. Third, it's delicious.

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Spinach for your keeping your brain sharp

Research indicates spinach can slow brain deterioration. When in doubt, eat a lot of spinach. As Florida-based dietitian Tara Gidus told Real Simple, "I know neurologists who recommend eating spinach at least three times a week."

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Seaweed to keep you alert

While it does have vitamins A and C, the most important nutrient seaweed contains is iodine. Iodine is critical for keeping your thyroid functioning; if it malfunctions, you're in for a host of problems, including fatigue, muscle weakness, impaired memory, heart palpitations, and high cholesterol.

So have a couple kimbap rolls for lunch instead of that burger.

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Avocado for a natural detox

Avocado is one of the only foods that contains a healthy amount of the fats that are good for you. It's great for your heart and vision and is a natural detoxification food.

Basically, you now have an excuse to hog all the guacamole at lunch.

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Green tea for overall kicking butt

Is it a snack per se? Does it matter? Green tea is incredible. This ancient health drink improves metabolism, concentration, eyesight, reduces depression, stress, fatigue, and reduces risks for cancer, heart disease, diabetes -- the list goes on and on.

Plus, it can be a great way to get caffeine without feeling jittery. Want to add a little kick? Add some ginger, which also has multiple health benefits.

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