Eating a snack while watching TV is a common way many people spend their evenings after a long day at work or school. Many traditional TV snacks, such as potato chips or candy, are not part of a healthy diet and contain too much saturated fat, salt or sugar. Swapping junk foods for more nutritious options will still satisfy your desire for a snack while watching your favorite TV show, but will also supply vitamins and nutrients instead of salt, fat or sugar.
Yogurt
A carton of yogurt is a low-calorie snack that supplies protein and calcium. Yogurt is also a convenient snack to eat while watching TV because it is not too messy and allows you to eat without preparation so you won't have to miss parts of your favorite program. Choose a variety of different flavors to keep your snack interesting and opt for those that are lowest in added sugar. Plain yogurt combines well with many nutritious ingredients such as honey, frozen fruit or low-fat granola, and can also make a healthy TV snack.
Apple Slices and Celery Sticks with Peanut Butter
Crunchy snacks that take a while to eat and that contain some fiber will be more satisfying and may help prevent over-snacking throughout your favorite show. Wash and slice one red or green apple and arrange it on a plate with one stalk of celery cut into small sticks. Add 1 tbsp. or so of peanut butter to your plate for dipping. Other nut butters, such as almond or walnut, are also healthy additions to apples and celery.
Pizza Crackers
Frozen pizza is a common snack that many people enjoy while watching TV. Most frozen pizzas are high in fat and low in nutrition, but you can achieve a similar taste by making your own pizza snacks. Start with several whole wheat crackers. Spoon 1 tsp. of low-sodium pizza sauce on each cracker and spread evenly. Add a black olive slice, minced onion and finely chopped mushroom. Top with a blend of part-skim mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Melt in a toaster oven until hot and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Waffle Sandwiches
Waffles are a food that do not need to be reserved for breakfast only. Whole grain waffles can be served as a nutritious snack that supplies fiber. Healthy fillings will increase your intake of vitamins and minerals as well as curb your hunger for munching during TV shows. Toast two waffles and allow them to cool slightly. Spread with cottage cheese and top with tomatoes as one calcium-rich filling. Low-fat cream cheese with smoked salmon will create a protein-filled snack, while peanut butter with fresh fruit or honey is a sweetened version that can help you satisfy your craving for sugary snacks.
References
- "365 Ways to Boost Your Metabolism"; Rachel Laferriere; 2009
- "The American Dietetic Association Guide to Healthy Eating for Kids"; Jo Ellen Shield, et al.; 2002
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