Snacks don't need to be taboo while you're on a diet. Snacking can actually help you drop weight and slim down. Hunger is a big killer of willpower and determination; by eating every two to four hours and remaining satiated, you avoid hunger and are better able to stay in control of the type of foods you eat. The key is to eat the right snacks by choosing foods that are healthy and low in calories, and provide a plethora of vitamins and minerals.
Veggie-Based
Building snacks around vegetables can allow you to eat a greater quantity of food for fewer calories. Plus, veggies are packed with vitamins and minerals, which help your body to run smoothly, and their high-fiber content can help keep you satiated. A cup of tomato soup with a side of baby carrots will provide you with potassium and beta carotene, and sipping the hot soup will allow you to savor your snack. Other options are celery, green pepper and carrot sticks dipped in hummus; cherry tomatoes paired with low-fat string cheese; or sugar snap peas dipped in low-fat ranch dressing.
Protein-Based
Snacking on protein can help keep your brain functioning at an optimal level as you get through your work day. Try turkey slices wrapped in romaine lettuce leaves and dipped in mustard; low-fat yogurt; cottage cheese paired with whole-wheat crackers; a hard-boiled egg with a side of fruit and veggie slices; or low-fat cheese paired with apple.
On The Go
Running from meeting to meeting and appointment to appointment can interfere with your ability to eat nutritiously. However, planning in advance can allow you to stash prepared, easy-to-eat, on-the-go snacks in your bag. Make your own homemade trail mix by combining a handful of walnuts, almonds or cashews with raisins; you can even throw in dark chocolate chips, but keep those to a minimum. Mix air-popped popcorn with grated Parmesan cheese in a plastic baggie or reusable container. Apple slices with a side of nuts can also fill you up while satisfying both your sweet and salty cravings; just keep the nuts to one serving.
Decadent Snacks
Once in a while, adding a bit of decadence to your snacks will satisfy your sweet tooth yet not derail your diet. Top a whole-grain, low-fat, toaster waffle with one serving of chocolate-hazelnut sauce. Or a make a healthier version of a banana split by slicing one banana in half lengthwise and topping it with a serving of low-fat frozen yogurt.
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