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Fruit is a great nutrient packed option
It is back to school time, and we are finding that again the kids have lunches that are at times that really could not be considered "lunch." Really, who has lunch at 10:40? Grade-schoolers apparently. Since, the bus comes at 6:40 though, I am sure they are hungry by then. The real problem comes with the amount of time between lunch and dinner.
On evenings where there is cheerleading practice or a baseball game, dinner can be as late at 8:30 or 9:00. That's ten hours after lunch! As much as we would love to have dinner before the game, that is not always possible. So instead we must rely on snacks.
Snacks should be an important part of everyone's day. They keep the metabolic fire burning and help us avoid overeating at meals. But we must make healthful selections with our special treats. I am horrified every time the KitKat commercial on the radio coaxes you to enjoy one of those suggary sticks with your coffee. That's the perfect example of the wrong snack. What's the right snack? Here are some simple and tasty selections that can keep you feeling energized, full, and healthy.
Cheese: A wedge of Laughing Cow Light cheese spreads wonderfully on some multi-grain crackers. Or throw a cheese stick in your bag for a quick snack on the run.
Fruit: Dip an apple or banana in some peanut butter to boost flavor and protein. Grab a handful of fresh grapes, or throw some in the freezer as a cool treat later- they also make wonderful icecubes.
Nuts: Unsalted peanuts are great, but the best option is roasted almonds. Toss them with some dried cranberries and dark chocolate pieces for an antioxidant rich snack that feels like an indulgence.
Yogurt: Any flavor will do, but vanilla mixes particularly well with your favorite berry.
Cereal: It's not just for breakfast. Kashi has some very yummy varieties, but I am also fond of the Special K and Quaker varieties.
Protein bars: Very portable, they are ideal to avoid that trip to the drive thru or vending machine. Fiber1 has some great new flavors.
Veggies: Have some celery and peppers precut and baby carrots on hand. These are wonderful dipped in hummus. Also when I make dill dip for a party, I like to make extra to enjoy later with the veggies.
Pita bread: Another great dipper for hummus. It also makes a great mini pizza with some fresh tomatoes and shredded cheese.
Popcorn: Skip the microwave and pop the kernals yourself and add your own flavors to make it unique to whatever mood you are feeling. Chili powder anyone?
These are just a few ideas. The key to successful snacking is to have these things on hand. Most of us have a good idea about we should be eating, but we don't keep our kitches stocked with these items, or we forget to pack them and bring them along. But the biggest mistake we make is to skip snacking or even meals altogether. Remember snacking is vital to a healthy diet. Happy snacking!
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