How to Take the Lead In Snacks
By Sandy Schroeder
Most of us could benefit from more healthy fats, less sugar and less salt. We just need fresh ideas that fit our appetites and our daily routines.
Harvard Health stepped up recently to provide some new ideas for the snack game. When you consider how much time we spend out there, driving, taking breaks at work, eating lunch or dinner out, and snacking during the evening, it pays to make every bite count for health, calories and sheer enjoyment.
See what you think of these tips that may help you enjoy your snacks more as you eat healthier
Do breakfast whenever - Whole fruit, low sugar jam on whole grain toast could replace cookies or chips in the evening. Or a boiled egg, toast with tea, or a small bowl of whole grain cereal with almond milk might complete the day as you relax.
Tote snacks everywhere you go - Large fashion bags or canvas totes work really well to carry small healthy snacks like an apple, mandarin orange, or bag of almonds to keep you satisfied and away from candy bars or cookies at the coffee counter. You can also bring bagged lunches to work. Try breast of chicken and leafy greens with wasabi mayo or tuna salad with sweet red pepper rings.
Put your money on whole grains - Pretzels, tortillas, chips or fiber-full cereals satisfy with an energy boost.
Do some healthy math - Take a small amount of a healthy fat, such as peanut or almond butter and add a whole handful of celery sticks or apple slices. Or start with a tempting avocado spread on whole wheat toast.
Try all of the nuts and seeds - Walnuts, peanuts, roasted pumpkin seeds, cashews, almonds and hazelnuts can replace chips or cookies. Eat small portions to keep the calories down.
Mix it up - Create combinations like whole wheat crackers, grapes and string cheese. Or opt for whole wheat tortilla wraps filled with black beans, low-fat cheese, green onions and jalapenos.
Focus on the snack - Too often we gobble up snacks while we cruise online, watch TV or pound out some work at our desks. When you eat, go somewhere else to just enjoy the snack. Move to a nearby table, or step outside.
Snacks do not have to be our downfall. Pick the right ones and enjoy the flavors and the energy boost.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Upland, Calif.