Snacking is very good for you, provided you are making healthy choices. As a teenage boy, eating healthy snacks between meals will help your energy levels remain consistently high. Ensure that the snacks you select provide your body with vitamins and minerals, and aim for those which contain protein or complex carbohydrates.
Whole Wheat Pretzels
Whole wheat pretzels provide you with whole grains, adding fiber to your diet. Fiber is essential to having a healthy, functional digestive system and teens typically do not consume enough on a regular basis. Many people feel that regular pretzels are a healthy choice for snacking, but the truth is, these pretzels are made using flower that has been over-processed with most of the fiber and bran removed. Choosing the whole wheat options ensures that the fiber is intact. For a little added kick, dip your pretzels in mustard.
Mini Vegetable Pizza
It is difficult to find a teenage boy who doesn't enjoy the taste of warm pizza, although many may believe that it is off-limits as a healthy snack. This healthy version can be made using a half of a whole-wheat English muffin, 2 tbsp. of reduced fat mozzarella cheese, 2 tbsp. of tomato sauce and 1 tbsp. of chopped or grated vegetables. Place the English muffin on a cookie sheet. Spread the tomato sauce so the muffin is completely covered. Add the vegetables and mozzarella cheese and place under a broiler until the cheese is completely melted.
Dried Banana Chips
Dried banana chips are an option when you desire a snack that is both crunchy and sweet at the same time. Banana chips are typically dried, fried in coconut oil and then slathered in a thin coating of honey. Although dried and fried, banana chips retain their potassium and vitamins A and C. The banana chips can be eaten plain or, for an energy boost, add them to oatmeal or rolled oats cereal.
Tortilla Roll-Ups
Tortilla roll-ups are a fun food that you can make easily. Spread fat free or low fat cream cheese on top of a flour tortilla, stopping about 1 inch from the edge. Diagonally slice low fat lunch meat, such as turkey, chicken or ham, and a slice of low fat American cheese. Place the meat and cheese into the center of the tortilla. Roll the tortilla and microwave it for 30 seconds. Cut the roll-up into thirds and eat with a piece of fresh fruit.
References
- "How to Feed a Teenage Boy"; Georgia Orcutt; 2007
- "A Teen Guide to Quick, Healthy Snacks"; Dana Meachen Rau; 2011
- "Healthy Treats and Super Snacks for Kids; Penny Warner; 1994
- "Healthy Snacks for Kids"; Penny Warner; 2007
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