December Daily Tip #16–Snack On!
Somewhere along the line many of us have gotten the impression that snacking is not good for us; I disagree with this strategy. Snacking can be important ally in staying satisfied–which translates to being in control of your food choices. What is important is that snacking is done in a mindful, intelligent way. Does this mean you can only have organic carrots for snacks? Absolutely not! (My apologies if organic carrots are your favorite treat.) For the rest–use a few guidelines to choose a snack that will help keep your tummy full and happy while perhaps adding some nutritional value to your day, and minimizing empty calories.
How to do this? Choose a snack that is high in fiber, pair it with a beverage and perhaps a protein source. Some examples: low fat microwave or airpopped popcorn (high in fiber) with a beverage of your choice, apple slices with cheese, hummus with veggies, lowfat cottage cheese with peaches, 1/2 serving of reduced fat peanut or nut butter with veggies. The combinations are endless~what’s your favorite?!