Question: I’m getting so tired of my same old veggies and ranch dip. Do you have some alternative suggestions for easy, fresh, healthy snacks?
Snacks are a great way to help boost your energy and supply essential vitamins and minerals in between meals. Every healthy eating plan should include snacks to help curb hunger at mealtimes. When it comes to snacking, most people choose foods that are high in sugar or added fats. However, with some planning in advance, there are many healthy and tasty alternatives that can help you stick to your caloric budget. Below are a few snack ideas:
- One tablespoon of peanut or almond butter spread on slices of a medium apple
- Half of a whole wheat tortilla with two slices of turkey or tomato and one sliver of avocado
- 6 ounces of low-fat yogurt with ½ cup of blueberries, raspberries, strawberries or blackberries
- 10 unsalted almonds or hazelnuts and a banana
- 5 whole wheat crackers and 1 piece of string cheese
- 1 cheese quesadilla (made with 6-inch corn or whole wheat tortilla + 1 ounce of shredded cheese) and ¼ cup salsa
- Smoothie made with 6 ounces of low-fat yogurt, ½ cup skim milk and ½ cup fresh or frozen berries
- ¼ cup dried fruit and nut mix (unsalted nuts preferable)
- 2 rice cakes (with a 4-inch diameter) and 1 hard-boiled egg
- Small baked potato topped with salsa and 1 ounce low-fat cheese
- Toaster waffle topped with ½ cup blueberries and 2 tablespoons low-fat yogurt
- One 6-inch flour tortilla with ¼ cup black beans and 2 tablespoons fresh salsa
Some additional tips:
- Drink enough water during the day. Snacks are a great way to curb your hunger in between meals! However, it is easy to mistake hunger for thirst.
- Snack only when you’re hungry. Skip the urge to nibble when you’re bored, frustrated or stressed.
- When choosing a snack, include protein and fiber in your snack choices. Your snack can also include healthy fats, such as nuts or avocado.
- Just remember, portion sizes matter when it comes to snacking!
Happy snacking,
Linda Gavrielov, MS RD CDN