For most people, a diet means the restriction of foods, with snacks being completely eliminated so calories can be saved. Not snacking can actually be a mistake when you are attempting to lose weight. When dieting, if you go a significant amount of time without eating, you become so hungry that when you finally eat, your food choices are poor and portion sizes are too large. Eating healthy snacks satisfies your cravings and prevents overeating.
Egg Salad
The combination of a little fat with protein gives egg salad the staying power to keep you satisfied between meals. Homemade egg salad is easy to make. Hard-boil two eggs, peel them and chop up one whole egg and the white of the other. Mix in 1 tbsp. of low-fat or fat-free mayonnaise or salad dressing. The protein from the eggs will provide your body with fuel to keep it going for hours, and the fat from the mayonnaise will slow the digestion process, keeping you full longer.
Trail Mix
Trail mix can be made easily at home and keeps for a long time when stored in an airtight container. Whether you are looking for a snack that is sweet, salty or a combination of the two, trail mix can be made according to your tastes. Some items that can be used in trail mix include low-fat granola, pumpkin seeds, whole-grain cereal, sunflower seeds, peanuts, almonds and cashews. Additionally, dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, apricots, pineapple and apples can be added.
Apples and Cottage Cheese
The apples-and-cottage cheese combination offers a unique blend that provides important fiber, calcium and protein. Simply core an apple and slice it into pieces. Place the slices into a bowl and cover with 1/2 cup of reduced-fat cottage cheese. Sweeter apples, such as Granny Smith or Fuji, taste the best when paired with the cottage cheese. As an alternaive, the fresh apple can be replaced with two cinnamon-spiced apple rings. These are available in the canned fruit section of the supermarket. If you choose to use the apple rings, ensure they are drained fully before placing them in the bowl.
Fresh Vegetables and Dressing
Sliced vegetables and a low-fat dressing make for a snack with a limited number of calories and the benefits of being rich in fiber. Select your favorite vegetable, such as cucumbers, baby carrots, cauliflower, broccoli or celery, and dip it in dressing, such as fat-free ranch, raspberry vinaigrette, French or Italian.
References
- "Eat This, Not That: The Supermarket Survival Guide"; David Zinczenko; 2008
- "Planning and Preparing Healthy Meals and Snacks: A Day-to-Day Guide to a Healthier Diet"; Jennifer Silate; 2008
- "Super Snacks"; Bobbie Kalman; 2003
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