Good news for snackers! Studies show that responding to the onset of hunger breaks the starve-binge cycle that can ruin eating habits. Grazing can supply your body with an even, balanced source of energy and can contribute valuable nutrients to your diet.

Unfortunately, a recent study reported in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association reveals that Americans choose snacks for their taste rather than their nutritional value, and place availability over personal preference. So if you're an office worker, chances are you're making one too many trips to a vending machine that's stocked with unhealthy, sugary sweets.

Instead, keep your desk drawer stocked with nutritious foods that contribute to a healthy diet. And remember: Snack to satisfy hunger, not boredom. When stocking your drawer, consider office foods that don't require refrigeration and can keep well for a month or so, such as:

• Ready-to-eat, serving-sized boxed cereals (high fiber, low sugar, low fat)
• Power Bars
• Granola Bars (low-fat variety)
• Homemade trail mix (include nuts, dried fruits, cereals, pretzels, etc.)
• Dried fruits (especially apricots, figs and raisins)
• Cookies (ginger snaps, graham crackers, animal crackers, oatmeal, Fig Newtons)
• Pretzels (whole wheat)
• Whole grain, low-fat crackers (Melba toast, Wasa, low-fat Triscuits, etc.)
• Breadsticks
• Dry-roasted mixed nuts (eat only a few at a time since they are high in fat and calories)
• Popcorn or rice cakes
• Low-sugar peanut butter (with knife for spreading)
• Juice boxes (100 percent juice, Vitamin C-rich or vegetable juice)
• Shelf-stable low-fat puddings
• Applesauce cups
• Instant oatmeal or other hot cereal