I can remember a time when my snacks consisted of red vines, potato chips, movie theatre popcorn, snickers bars, mocha almond fudge ice cream and Snackwell's low-fat cookies. Back then, I believed that the purpose of eating snacks was for 100% pure pleasure.
Today, I still eat popcorn and baked corn chips occasionally, but my main focus on snacking is to provide my body with the energy it needs to make it through until lunch or dinner. And because I tend to have blood sugar issues, I find that eating the right type of snacks helps to stabilize my blood glucose levels.
I still want to enjoy my snack foods, but my idea of eating for strictly pleasure has changed dramatically over the years. When I think about reaching for a snack, my first thought is, "what sounds good?" and my second thought is, "what can I eat that will give me the most superior nutrition?" That might sound a little weird to you, but I really do think this way because I want to make every bite count.
Funny thing is, when I work with my clients and they begin to feel better in their bodies and truly embrace feeding their bodies with healing and nourishing foods, they begin shifting their thinking in this way as well.
Having healthy snacks on hand can be so simple when you plan ahead. It's really just about stocking up on the right stuff. The best snacks come from whole, unprocessed foods and contain protein, fiber and healthy oils. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Flax crackers with a spread of hummus or avocado
- Celery sticks with raw almond butter
- Apple slices dipped in almond butter
- An apple with a handful of nuts or seeds
- Raw veggie sticks like carrots, celery, jicama and zucchini dipped in hummus
- Green smoothie
- Homemade trail mix: raw sprouted almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and goji berries
- Protein shake or bar
- Baked tortilla chips and fresh salsa or guacamole
- Kale chips
- For more nutritious snacks you can check out Live Superfoods.com and NaturalNewsStore.com.
I invite you to steer clear of the vending machine and keep healthy snacks with you wherever you go. I always keep a bag of nuts or an energy bar with me just in case I need an energy boost before my next meal.
Once you start eating healthier snacks that actually taste delicious you'll no longer crave the sugary, processed junk and instead enjoy munching on more wholesome treats that your body will love!
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