Afternoon Snacks That Are Good for Your Health

By Debra Rodzinak

Who doesn’t love snacks?  However, munching on high-calorie, low nutritional snacks will only pack on the pounds.  Try these low-calorie snacks that are high in nutrition and taste, but low in calories.

Almonds

Just a handful of these power packed nuts satisfies hunger and lasts for hours, helping you get to your next meal.  Almonds contain protein and fiber which keeps you full and satisfied for less than 200 calories.

Zucchini Chips

Instead of frying potatoes in greasy oil, slice some zucchini into thin chips, dip in fat-free milk, and coat with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.  Place on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for a heavenly substitute for potato chips.  Serve with hummus, carrots, or a yogurt flavored with seasoning.

Waffles

Instead of the plain old waffle, smothered in sugary syrup and butter, opt for a whole grain waffle with honey, fresh fruit, or fruit preserves.  The whole wheat fills you up and the added sweet kick of fruit replaces the high calorie syrup.

Cheese

A favorite of everyone, cheese choices are varied and versatile.  Pair a one-inch cube with several dried apricots and imagine yourself sitting in Paris at an outside café.

Cereal 

Yes, this is not a typo.  Cereal is a great choice for those who need a crunchy snack.  Don’t dig into a box of sugary cereal.  Instead, pour out one cup of bran flakes, Wheat Chex, or organic granola.  Full of fiber and taste, these options allow for the crunch factor without the calories.

Endive

An unknown substitute for lettuce, endive is a flavorful type of leafy green that is a perfect vessel for a dollop of part-skim ricotta cheese.  Packed full of flavor and calcium, ricotta cheese lends a powerful kick for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Cucumber

A negative calorie snack, eating a cucumber burns more calories than it contains.  Spread on a little low-fat creamy Swiss cheese and you have found a tasty low calorie afternoon snack.

Energy Bars

An instant afternoon pick-me-up, power bars with at least 4 grams of protein can get you through the afternoon lull.  Watch out for power bars that have more than 200 calories or less than 2 grams of fiber. 

Popcorn 

Instead of soaking your popcorn in greasy butter, sprinkle some air-popped popcorn with a generous serving of dark chocolate shavings.  Dark chocolate (at least 80 percent cacao) is actually good for your heart.

To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.

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