It is that time of the year again; time to make resolutions and set goals.  Many Americans vow to lose weight and be healthy in the New Year.  With that goal in mind, it is important to remember the role snacks can play in a healthy diet. 

Eating smaller meals, along with 2-3 snacks each day will help prevent eating binges, control blood sugar levels, and boost the metabolic rate.  The key to choosing good snacks is in the combination of foods and the nutrition they provide.  Ideally, snacks need some protein and some carbohydrate.  With a little planning, snacks can help you meet your “be healthy and lose weight” resolution!

 

Superb Snacks

 

1.  Nuts – Grab a handful (about 15 nuts).  They have protein, which helps fill you up, along with vitamins and minerals essential for good health.
2. Hummus and Red Pepper – Vitamin C and antioxidants are abundant in the red pepper and hummus adds nice flavor.
3. Greek Yogurt – This type of yogurt has 2-3 times the protein of regular yogurt with lots of calcium too.  Add frozen berries for an extra nutrition boost.
4. Apple and Peanut Butter – This snack is great for all, but especially popular with children.  Leave the skin on the apple and use a pre-portioned “Peanut Butter To Go” cup for extra ease.
5. Trail Mix – Make a big batch on the weekend and use it throughout the week.  Be sure to include nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.  The portion for trail mix is ¼- ½ cup, as it can be high in calories.
6. Chocolate Milk – Nothing is easier than grabbing a bottle of milk.  It has a perfect combination of carbohydrate and protein, just make sure you go for low-fat or fat-free milk.
7. Cheese and Crackers – With many varieties of string cheese, cheese cubes or “cracker cuts,” it’s easy to add cheese to whole-grain crackers and get a dose of protein and calcium. 
8. Fiber One Bar – Portable, easy and full of fiber, this bar is a great option.
9. Fruit or Raw Vegetables – Most of us do not get the recommended 5-9 servings of fruit and veggies each day.  Toss an orange, plum, pear, carrots or broccoli in your briefcase and boost your vitamin intake.
10. Frozen Fruit Bar – These bars are a great way to enjoy a pleasant sweet treat while staying in good health.
11. Nut Clusters – If you have not tried True North pecan, cashew, almond clusters, pick some up on your next trip to the grocery store.  They are slightly sweet, really crunchy and packed with nutrition.
12. Chocolate Graham Crackers with Peanut Butter – The “healthy” peanut butter cup, this snack will satisfy your sweet tooth.  Remember to go easy on the peanut butter, as it is high in calories.