Why snack?

“Snacking” often gets a bad rap. This is probably because today’s snack foods are mostly high in sugar, fat and calories (chips, candy, chocolate etc.)

Snacking on healthy food, on the other hand, maintains your energy levels by keeping your blood sugar stable, helps you meet your daily nutrient requirements and prevents you from overeating at your next meal.

It is important to plan snacks in advance. With something on hand, it’s easier to avoid the temptation of convenient yet unhealthy options.

So what makes a good snack?

Nuts:
A fantastic source of protein and heart healthy fats, nuts make a nutritious and easy snack. Grab a palm-full (1 oz) of almonds or walnuts, or keep a bag of trail mix on hand.

Cheese:
Cheese strings are high in protein and calcium, and easily portable.

Fruits and Vegetables:
Both are full of fibre, vitamins and minerals. Most fruits take little preparation, and to make veggies easier to grab, buy them pre-washed and pre-cut or do all the prep on a day (like Sunday) when you have more time.

Healthy Snack Combos:
• 6 whole-wheat crackers and 1 cheese string
• Vanilla yogurt with berries and All-Bran Buds
• Veggie sticks with hummus
• Fruit smoothie made with frozen fruit and milk, soy milk or almond milk
• Apple with 1 Tbsp peanut butter
• 1 oz almonds and ½ cup grapes

 

Do you have a favorite snack combo that helps get you through your day?