Some foods were originally designed for a niche market of our population.  Point in case trail mix. Trail mix, the original power food was designed for hikers and outdoor enthusiast and is the perfect solution for individuals expending a large amount of energy hiking miles of rocky terrain. These dedicated outdoorsmen have no desire to pack and carry a five course meal and are too busy enjoying nature to stop and eat.
 
Though, if you’ve looked around your local grocery store, you know that gone are the days of raw almonds, toasted steel cut oats, and sun dried fruit that composed the trail mix of yesteryear. In its place we find a sinful assortment of marshmallows, milk chocolate, sugar coated nuts, and don’t forget those yummy caramel clusters. In short, trail mix has become the snack of choice for the every day man. The problem is that the everyday man (or woman) has not been hiking up any mountains lately (for those die-hard hikers, this does not apply to you). In fact, most of us are sitting behind a desk, expending a minimal amount of physical energy.
 
It begins around 3:00 in office buildings across America when we start searching for our next fix. And what is there to lead to our dietary demise, but the ultimate Chunky Monkey trail mix conveniently located in our desk drawer. It really wouldn’t be that big of a deal if we just poured out the recommended ¼ cup serving size, but no. It’s more likely that we look down and find half of the bag, which “claims” to contain 24 servings, is mysteriously missing! We look around to identify the culprit who has been stealing our coveted trail mix, only to find that we are the only one in the room with melted chocolate on our hands.
 
If the previous scenario sounds even remotely familiar, here are a few suggestions. One recommendation is that we all move to the mountains and start hiking, but if you don’t feel comfortable quitting your job in this economic climate than try stocking up on more filling snacks, such as whole grain English muffins with almond butter or fresh fruit and low-fat string cheese. If your heart still desires trail mix add one to two tablespoons to the top of your favorite yogurt or make your own trail mix by combining dried cereal, pretzels, raisins and even a handful of your favorite chocolate candy. Remember, trail mix can be part of a healthy diet but remember to eat responsibly!