As a big lover of sweets, I have to be careful with my intake of candy bars and the like. One way I keep myself in check is by not having sweets in my house. That way I have to go out to get them and that limits the amount and frequency of my indulgences. Sharing a dessert with my husband or friends at a restaurant is perfect as I can enjoy the flavors and not over do it.
Like everyone else, I get those midmorning or afternoon cravings, when I want a little something to hold me over to the next meal. Snacking itself is not the enemy ~ it’s what you choose to snack on that makes the difference.
These are some of the things I have available for snack time:
1. Granny smith (or green) apple with natural peanut butter
Why it’s healthy and yummy: Apples are crunchy and juicy and provide fiber and many nutrients. They are also low on the glycemic index for fruit so they don’t trigger your body to produce a lot of insulin. Peanut butter is full of protein for energy. Get the natural version; you can find it sweetened with honey – it’s delicious.
2. The Laughing Cow Light spreadable cheese with celery sticks.
Why it’s healthy and yummys: This cheese has a creamy texture and tastes like a full fat variety. You will really feel like you are indulging when you eat this snack. Celery sticks provide vitamins and minerals and are a good source of nutritious fiber.
3. Strawberries dipped in dark chocolate
Why it’s healthy and yummy: Strawberries are full of vitamin C and numerous phytonutrients. Dark chocolate contains antioxidants that fight off free radicals. It can also help lower high blood pressure. Another snack you will enjoy while feeling like you are really treating yourself!
4. Nuts
Why it’s healthy and yummy: Nuts are full of protein and healthy fats. Almonds and pistachios (15 almonds and 30 pistachios) make a great, filling snack and their flavor is earthy and satisfying. Studies show almonds can help lower elevated LDL cholesterol levels, too. I just heard Food Network’s Ellie Krieger say that nuts are fine as a snack; just eat about a handful.
Keep a jar of wheat germ in your fridge and sprinkle some on the apple and peanut butter or celery and cheese snack combos. A great source of vitamin E and folic acid, it’s also great on yogurt or even ice cream!
What are your favorite snacks? I really dig Sour Patch Kids, but I can’t let myself eat those as often as I’d like. As in about twice a day. Ha!
Photo Credit © Susabell | Dreamstime.com
Posted by: Letitia Eppea on August 3, 2009 at 5:57 pm
Good evening Laura,
I love your recipes for healthy snacking. My niece and I always use granny smith apples and honey pb by Jiff. We eat our slices with our feet up on my balcony.
We also air pop some popcorn, add a touch of olive oil cooking spray and a touch of salt. We find it delicious.
Have a great evening,
Letitia