Healthy Snack Ideas to Fuel Your Body

Nutritious snacks, in the right portion sizes, can be part of a healthy eating plan. Eating a balanced diet is challenging because life are busy. Therefore, skipping meals can be very common.

FIVE TIPS FOR HEALTHY SNACKS

Snacks are foods or drinks that are consumed between meals. When you’re on-the run during a busy day, think of snacks as mini-meals that offer some nutritional value and an energy boost. Examples are an apple with peanut butter or cheese with crackers. These are different than treats, such as cookies, chocolate and chips, which are not as nourishing as snacks.

Choosing healthy snacks can be a great way to get all the nutrients your body needs each day.

Plan ahead. Keep a variety of healthy, ready-to-eat snacks on hand for when you get hungry, like cut up veggies, nuts and cubed cheese. Being prepared helps you avoid less-healthy treats.
Be aware of portion sizes. Instead of snacking from a large bag or box, take a portion and put it on a plate or bowl.
Listen to your hunger cues. Ask yourself: am I truly hungry, or am I eating because I am bored, tired or stressed.
Skip distracted snacking! Avoid munching while looking at a screen, driving or working. You may eat more than you need if you’re distracted from your feeling of fullness.
Snack on vegetables! Most people don’t eat enough vegetables or fruit. Snacking on them between meals is a great way to add an extra serving or two to your day.

PROTEIN + FIBRE SNACK IDEAS

Trail Mix: Small handful of trail mix made with nuts, seeds and raisins.

Veggies & Hummus: Place 2 tbsp of hummus in the bottom of a tall container and stand cut up veggies like carrots, cucumbers and celery for an easy, all-in-one snack. Check out Quick and Easy Chickpea Hummus.

Green Shake: This is a great way to up your GREENs! In a blender, put together a handful of spinach, kale, a banana, 1/2 cup greek yogurt and a few berries. Check out 6 Steps to Make a Smarter Smoothie.