5 ESSENTIALS FOR HEALTHY SNACKING 1. Plain Greek Yogurt Plain Greek yogurt can be an excellent snack, particularly because it is an excellent source of protein. A serving of Greek yogurt can contain between 15 and 20 ounces of protein, which will make you feel full faster. Greek yogurt is also lower in carbohydrates than regular yogurt. Studies have shown that eating Greek yogurt leads to decreased hunger and snacking. Make sure to stick with plain Greek yogurt though – the flavored varieties have too much sugar to count as a healthy snack. 2. Fruits + Protein Source Fruit is always a great snack choice – high in nutrients and fiber. The only downside to fruits is their high levels of natural sugars. That’s why it’s important to combine fruits with a protein source. By combining your fruit with a small serving of peanut butter, cheese or yogurt, you’ll be able to prevent your blood sugar levels from going out of control. The extra protein will also help you to stay full and feel more satisfied until your next meal. 3. Avocados Avocados are a great, heart-healthy snack. This green fruit is high in fiber, potassium, and unsaturated fat. It also contains plenty of vitamins C, K, and B-6. Try some delicious guacamole with tortilla chips, or add avocado to your salad. Avocados are also linked to improved nutrient intake and a lower risk of metabolic syndrome. You can also eat them all by themselves with a squirt of lemon juice or a little bit of salt. There is no denying that avocados are a superfood! 4. Nuts Nuts can be an integral part of a healthy diet. Nuts are associated with lower levels of LDL (bad cholesterol). They are also full of unsaturated fatty acids that are great for your heart. Another surprising fact about nuts is that they can decrease your risk of blood clots. They also contain Vitamin E, which reduces your risk of arterial plaques. Nuts are also high in fiber and protein, keeping you fuller longer and aiding in digestion. 5. Veggies + Hummus Looking to replace the crunch of chips and dip? Try veggies and hummus! Vegetables are the obvious good choice for snacking – full of nutrients and fiber. Vegetables offer the crunch of chips, but are much better for you and can even help you manage your weight. Hummus pairs deliciously with vegetables and is a good source of protein and fiber. Typically made with tahini, which offers a few more grams of protein along with a few grams of unsaturated fat, hummus makes for a healthier alternative than your usual onion or ranch flavored dips. SOURCE: dailyhealthpost/5-essentials-for-healthy-snacking/2/#ixzz2fl0k9psp
Posted on: Mon, 23 Sep 2013 22:24:36 +0000
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