The other day a client who I have recently started working with said she had a confession to make. I held onto my seat not knowing exactly what she might say. She said, “Alright, I have to come clean. I like to snack”. Informing my clients on healthy snacking is easy. I will share with you easy ways to make healthy eating a habit (including healthy snack ideas!).
#1) Eat more veggies
Munching on veggies allows you to stay away from the cookies and candies. I often munch on veggies while I am prepping dinner. Slicing up a cool cucumber or eating steamed edamame really staves hunger. Add salads to your meals. Instead of pasta you can shred zucchini with a julienne peeler, and rather than creamy mashed potatoes you can mash cauliflower for a similar taste and texture. Have a veggie juice when on the go. And make your own baked veggie chips for a healthy snack.
#2) Protein
Having some protein will fight off hunger throughout the day. Protein fills you up and helps you feel satisfied longer than carbs do. Some examples of easy protein are: hard boiled eggs, sliced chicken or turkey, greek style yogurt and peanut butter are good choices.
#3) Dairy
I enjoy a decaf latte as a snack or hot tea or chocolate with milk. You can use skim milk or soy or almond (and even whole milk is ok once in awhile). A slice of hard cheese paired with an apple or pear is a great snack option. Greek style yogurt with some fruit and nuts is also a great snack.
#4) Chop your fruits and veggies
If you take a few extra minutes when you get home from the market to cut and slice the produce you just bought it will get eaten right away! Easy access is what it’s all about! You will feel so much better about grabbing some baby carrots or sliced fruit rather than a cookie.
#5) Try something new
Tired of eating bananas and apples and carrots and celery? There are so many new and exciting options available- try a kumquat or passion fruit or purple cauliflower. You don’t need to get into a snack rut. There is so much out there to try that will satisfy your stomach and fill you up not out!
What do you like to snack on? I would love to hear from you!
For more snacking ideas get in touch with me at rachel@livehealthynyc.com
