Eating three, well-balanced meals is important in maintaining a healthy body. But what about during the day, in between those well-planned and thought-out meals. Snacking can be just as nutritious, and necessary, as your three daily squares, states the American Diabetes Association. Snacks need not be crammed with excess fats and sugars, to be tasty. There are many good food choices that can fill the void during the day and provide excellent nutrition.
Fruits and Vegetables
Eating during the day may help maintain your metabolism, especially if you're active. It can provide mental and physical energy. Choosing fruits and vegetables to eat during the day may help keep you alert and add vitamins, minerals and fiber to your diet. A cup of strawberries can add potassium, vitamin A, C and 13 g of fiber. One medium apple supplies you with 10 minerals, 18 vitamins and 4 g of fiber. One medium carrot holds over 10,000 IU of vitamin A and 5,000 mcg of beta carotene. Broccoli offers loads of vitamin C, folic acid, potassium, phosphorus and calcium.
Milk and Yogurt
Dairy products offer a wide variety of food choices and a cornucopia of added nutrition to your daily diet. Calcium is one of the most important aspects of dairy consumption. Calcium is needed to maintain healthy bones and teeth, especially in those groups facing health issues concerning osteoporosis. Cheese is part of the dairy group and is a great source for calcium and protein. Low-fat yogurt also makes a great option as it contains probiotics that may help keep a healthy balance of intestinal bacteria.
Nuts and Seeds
Other healthy options for eating during the day are nuts and seeds. Nuts and seeds may be high in calories, so eating them in small amounts is advised. One ounce of almonds can provide you with almost 4 g of fiber, 7 mg of vitamin E and 75 mg of calcium. An ounce of dry roasted macadamia nuts has 33 g of magnesium and 18 amino acids. Sunflower seeds are high in potassium, phosphorus, selenium and vitamin E.
Sweets
Its's hard to deny your sweet tooth gets the better of you on occasion. This does not have to be a bad thing if you choose wisely. There are lots of sugar-free products on the market that may assuage your craving, such as a frozen sugar-free Popsicle or sorbet. Dark chocolate may also fit the bill, provided you eat it in moderation. Dark chocolate, with at least 60 percent cacao solids provides the same type of antioxidants that are found in green tea and red wine. It is included in the University of Michigan's Healthy Foods Pyramid. It recommends about 1 oz. per day, no more than 7 oz. per week.
