When you are hungry and just HAVE to snack … then at least pick a food with a low Glycemic index that won’t blow your diet for the day.
Here are 5 things you can do whether snacking at home or out somewhere.
- Unsalted peanuts are a great snack food and just happen to also be good for you. The key is to make sure they are unsalted. They are high in fiber and protein and act as an anti-oxidant. Eat them in moderation and enjoy.
- Eating natural fruits like bananas and apples are always good choices. An orange is particularly good and is actually better for you than drinking orange juice. The bulk and fiber in the orange does a better job at filling that hole in the tummy than the juice does alone.
- Popcorn. That’s my personal favorite. No … you don’t need all that butter that they pour on at the movies to make it tasty. No salt either is a good idea. Popcorn is naturally low in fat and sugar so why mess it up. A bit of butter (not margarine) to add some flavor if you must but other tasty tid bits can be garlic powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Use the natural corn kernels and pop it an air popper, or just a bag in the microwave. Don’t use the store bought stuff.
- If you start your day off right with some oatmeal porridge for breakfast you may not get hungry during the day and need extras. Porridge will give you some fiber and carbs to start the day with a consistent blood sugar level. You can also spice up the bowl a bit with some fruit and berries with their natural sugars.
- A small salad during the day can also keep your blood sugar level humming along just fine. You can even take a salad from home with you for lunch. A simple salad of lettuce, peppers, and tomato topped off with a low cal or virgin olive oil dressing works just fine. Some lean meat can also be added for more protein.
Eat these smart snacks and chances are you won’t be giving a heart surgeon a down payment for their new Mercedes.
