Snack on THIS, NOT on That!
Making healthy choices can be a challenge at times. Our
taste buds become attracted to certain foods, which may not be the healthiest
even though they are delicious. Throughout the day in between each of our
meals, we get the urge to snack. Snacking on healthy foods throughout the day
can provide a lot of benefits to our everyday lives. Some of the numerous benefits
include decreasing the odds of over-eating, providing a mid-day boost of energy
inaddition to providing additional nutrients that may not have been obtained at
the meal table. Although snacking has multiple benefits, it is important to
make smart decisions and keep the recommendations below in mind:
- Plan Ahead! When you go to the supermarket, make sure you place snack items on your list. By planning ahead, you are able to save money as well as have more of a variety to pick from. When running errands, you may get hungry and want a snack. Going to the vending machine can become costly not only to your bank account, but also your health. Vending machines typically contain Grab & Go items, such as sodas and chips, which may not be the healthiest of choices. When navigating the aisles at the supermarket and in search for healthy choices, be on the look out for fresh produce, low-fat dairy yogurts, and whole grains.
- Portion Control! When snacking make sure you are not over eating and eating so much that you spoil your meals. Snacks are meant to be a quick start, energy boost from meal to meal. Try to portion your snacks and limit them to one-serving. A good example of controlling your portions would be to take Ziploc bags and separate them or to buy snack items that have been divided into single servings.
- Snack With a Purpose! Snacks are not intended to be eaten when you are stressed or bored watching TV. Snacks are to be consumed when you are hungry. When times get tough, comfort foods may seem like an attractive option, but please refrain! We encourage you to snack when you are hungry. Take control of your snacking and take a bite into a healthy lifestyle. Making the right choices in regards to your meals and snacks can go a long way!
—Meghan Wilhelmsen, BS, Wellness Coordinator (From Our Lively Mark)
