13 Apr 2010 --- It takes energy to endure a hectic, non-stop day. Whether you need to get through tough deadlines, long meetings, daily workouts or family-packed days, protein and fiber can give you the energy you need to win. This spring, Mitzi Dulan, RD, nutritionist for the Kansas City Royals and Kansas City Chiefs, and co-author of "The All-Pro Diet: Lose Fat, Build Muscle, and Live Like a Champion" with NFL player Tony Gonzalez, shares new ways to power through your day with helpful snacking tips.

For her professional athletes, Dulan recommends foods with protein and fiber to help provide that extra drive they need for game day. One of the easiest ways to get that protein is by eating almonds. "Almonds are the perfect on-the-go food to help you power through a grueling workout, or work day for that matter," Mitzi said. "With crunchy almonds on hand, even the most active person can battle hunger anywhere, anytime."

Follow Mitzi's simple snacking tips to help fuel your busy day with almonds:

1. Start your day strong. Rejuvenate your body after a morning workout by mixing whole or sliced almonds into fat-free yogurt or oatmeal for that extra crunch. A handful of almonds contains protein (6g) and fiber (3.5 g) which will help keep you satisfied and full until lunch time.
2. Enjoy a mid day boost. Toss a handful of slivered or sliced almonds ove your salad or pack a power lunch with a Turkey Pita with Fiery Almond Sauce.
3. Eat up and beat the 3 p.m. slump. Keep a re-sealable bag of flavored almonds in your desk or bring it with you to meetings to help ward off the desire to ambush your coworker's candy bowl.
4. Get protein before your workout. Just a handful of almonds provides a powerful protein punch (6g). I recommend almonds to my players to help provide the stamina and energy they need on game day and every day.
5. Have a smarter late night snack. Whether you're trying to make a deadline or winding down from a hard day, munch on some dark chocolate with a handful of roasted almonds to satisfy your late night cravings without undoing your whole day of eating right and exercising.