Over $37 billion is spent on weight loss aids every year in the United States; however, over two-thirds of the American population is still at least overweight, and the problem is only getting worse. Americans tend to be fickle in their weight loss regimens, jumping from one fad diet to the next, trying to cut their calories drastically to drop a few pounds. The key to successful weight loss is not severe calorie restriction; it is a well-balanced diet full of variety and consistency. Eat regular meals, along with healthy and tasty snacks to keep your metabolism at its peak throughout the day.
The Importance of Snacks
Snacks help take the edge off of your hunger in between meals so that you are less likely to pig out. Healthy snacks, along with regular healthy meals, can keep your metabolism revving throughout the day, which will lead to more calories burned, and faster weight loss. Base your snack intake on your hunger levels in between meals. If you find yourself with a ravenous appetite at lunch or at dinner, consider inserting a between-meal snack to curb your appetite. A snack should be around 100-200 calories.
Characteristics of a Healthy Snack
A healthy snack should contain essential nutrients that will add to your overall health. Therefore, your snack should consist of whole foods, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, low fat proteins, and whole grains. A healthy snack should not contain foods that offer little nutritional value, such as sweets and processed snack foods. Another characteristic of a healthy snack is that its carbohydrates, proteins and fats should be well balanced. By choosing a snack that has all three, you will be helping your body regulate its blood sugar levels, which aids in weight loss.
Making Your Snacks Tasty
Not only should your snacks be healthy, they should also be tasty, or you may be tempted to return to the pantry for some satisfying junk food. Choose a healthy base for your snack. Nuts, yogurt, fresh fruit, fresh vegetables and whole grain bread are all great foods to use. Make a snack extra tasty by using spreads and condiments such as low fat dip, hummus, peanut butter or salsa. The trick to a tasty, satisfying snack is to choose the healthy foods that you enjoy eating.
Examples of Healthy Tasty Snacks
Whether at home or on the go, plan an easy snack that tastes great and is good for you. Some examples are yogurt mixed with nuts and fruit, celery dipped in peanut butter or a low fat dip, a piece of whole grain toast with hummus spread, or a fruit smoothie made with yogurt. If you are on the go, plan your snacks the night before and carry them with you. Make sure that you can refrigerate perishable foods until you are ready to eat them.
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