As with anything, the key to smart snaking is moderation. When we eat meals at regular times and have healthy snacks in between those meals, we are less likely to overeat and gain weight than people who skip meals. It's normal to feel hungrier at specific times- like between a long shift at work or after your sports practice. The important thing to know is how much food your body needs to satisfy that hunger. Read serving size information on food labels. You could be consuming two servings worth of a snack if you're just going by eyesight (a.k.a. more eyes than stomach). This means double the calories, fat, and sugar. To avoid this, try to keep right-sized portioned healthy snacks in plastic sandwich bags on hand in your purse or backpack. Some ideas include: carrot sticks, berries, pretzels, and walnuts or any other favorite unsalted nuts. Below are a few more delicious healthy snacks to try.
Ants on a log: Spread peanut butter on celery sticks and sprinkle with raisins.
Homemade trail mix: Mix 1 cup whole-grain cereal with 1/4 cup almonds and 1/4 cup dried cranberries.
Banana ice pops: Peel several very ripe bananas, put popsicle sticks through them and place them in the freezer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, enjoy as is or drizzle with melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
Hopefully some of these tips will become a part of your eating routine. And please give these yummy treats a try- you won't regret it!
With love, the Guilt Free Girls
