Low-Fat-Snacks

Snacking has long been the weak link in the nutritional blueprint of many of us towards a healthy body weight, you get hungry halfway to lunch and you stumble to the nearest vending machine for some chips, cookies or even a chocolate bar once in a while, I get it, I have been there, but with a little planning and good choices, you can be prepared with some of the best snacks around, here are 5 of them.

Popcorn:

Air popped pop corn is the best type, if possible avoid the butter saturated microwave variety, however if you truly favor the convenience brought by this appliance, go for the low fat version at the pop corn aisle and avoid the flavored ones, they are generally not the healthiest.

3 cups of air popped popcorn equal 100 calories; it has high fiber content and a moderate calorie amount.

Almonds:

Almonds constitute a great snack due to their high quality protein (6 grams per ounce), which contains essential amino acids and is very digestible, almonds also have a high content of monosaturated fats (relax, this is the good kind of fat), they are high in vitamin E which is a strong antioxidant that boosts the immune system, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper manganese and dietary fiber. A nutrient packed power snack that will keep you feeling full for a while, they are great in moderation, a fistful constitutes a good snack, mix it with some dried fruits to make it a sweet healthy treat.

Low Fat Yogurt:

The perfect mixing treat, just toss some berries, nuts or granola and its ready, a favorite of the masses, yogurt is a very good source of calcium, vitamin B12, phosphorus and iodine. Known for its immune system boosting properties, yogurt is a great way to get the recommended calcium intake while being a great food for blending, a cup of low fat yogurt and a piece of fruit o some nuts make a great mid morning snack that will keep you alert and full till lunch.

Soybeans:

A big hit in Asian cultures, its high protein and folic acid content make it a great complement for meat free plates, such as steamed rice or steamed broccoli, edamame (sushi bar style green soy beans) make a great snack for midmorning cravings, just boil a half a cup of them and brim them to work in a plastic container, besides being fun to eat, they high protein content will keep you feeling full for a few hours.

Broccoli:

Steamed Broccoli Florets are high in antioxidants and vitamins, such as vitamin A, C and K and dietary fiber. It is also a great source of potassium, magnesium, Vitamin E, B6 and phosphorus. You can bring a cup of them to work and dip them in homemade dip of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, adding some sliced olives and soy sauce is a great way to have them too.

So, next time you are struck by mid morning hunger, be prepared with some of these healthy snacks, besides getting closer to your weight goals, you will be getting nutritious nourishment for your body and brain.

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Posted in: Management, Snacks, Success, Weight on Friday, December 24, 2010 at at 6:29 PM