FEATURE: How To Snack Healthy

FEATURE: How To Snack Healthy

Snacking isn’t always bad.

Eating between meals can provide a dose of nutrients when you need it the most. It can also keep meal portions in check. Next time you're hungry, don't wait, grab a handful of almonds. For about 200 calories, you get protein, healthy fats, an energy dose, and you're eating a longevity all star food. That ought to get you through the afternoon slump!

What to eat between meals?
Real Simple Magazine recommends 9 Healthy Pre-Dinner Snacks that pack protein, fiber and flavor. And that’s what you want to look for in a snack, this isn’t a full meal, but it should still be nutritious. My absolute favorite snack off the Real Simple list is the One Minute Antipasto plate. Antipasto plates are great because they usually have a protein source like salami or thinly sliced prosciutto, a cheese serving, mozzarella, or gouda, and a few olives full of omega-3 fatty acids. Toss a few grapes or tart, delicious granny smith apple slices in, and you have a fiber rich, nutrient packed snack in no time!

Something for the kids?
Kid’s are growing and their metabolism is on overdrive. Couple that with after school activities, homework, sports and it’s no wonder my ability to down a French Silk pie without batting an eye (or gaining a pound) stopped at age twelve. Kid’s need snacks for energy, mentally and physically. So what should you give them?

Make it interesting. A peanut butter sandwich is so much more enjoyable on crusty, fresh bread with a teaspoon of honey on top. A apple is fine, but a fresh granny smith apple and a few slices of swiss cheese is better. Nuts are a great choice. So are whole grain crackers with protein rich hummus. For more tips on kid’s and healthy snacking read this Kid’s Health article on snacks and nutrition.

Think snacking will wreck your weight loss plan? While it’s true that snacks add extra calories, something every dieter tends to avoid, snacking on fruits and vegetables and moderate servings of fiber rich whole grain crackers with low fat cheese is great because it cuts hunger pangs, and keeps you from overdoing dinner.
The Mayo Clinic offers great suggestions for anyone curious about how snacking fits in with their weight loss plan.

The bottom line?
Snacking of fiber rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains, dairy products and nuts and olives can be a healthy part of any diet as long as you consider calories and choose your snacks wisely.

Happy munching!