Snacks Matter
Snacks can play an important role in helping us to get the nutrients and energy we need, while also curbing urges to overeat at mealtime.
We live in a busy world where healthy eating isn’t always a priority. However, snacks can play an important role in helping us to get the nutrients and energy we need, while also curbing urges to overeat at mealtime.
Plan a half hour each weekend for prepping and packing up your snacks so they are easy to grab and go during the week. Healthy snacks help stabilize glucose levels, but just be aware of serving sizes since some snacks, such as nuts, dried fruit, and cheese, can be calorie dense. Happy snacking!
Some easy to prep snacks that are suitable for adults and children over the age of three are:
- Peanut butter roll-ups made with sugarfree peanut butter on a whole grain tortilla
- Hardboiled egg, tuna, or cheese on thin, whole grain cracker
- Small cups of unsweetened fruit or applesauce with walnuts
- Romaine lettuce dipped in sesame oil and low sodium soy sauce
- Roasted nuts or seeds, such as pistachios, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds
- Celery or carrots dipped in hummus
- Apple slices served with peanut butter
- Cut up veggies, such as broccoli, red peppers, or sugar snap peas, with a low-fat salad dressing or Greek yogurt
- Popcorn with a spray of olive oil and a sprinkle of dried spices like garlic or cumin
- High in fiber, no sugar added cereal, such as Shredded Wheat or Grape Nuts, sprinkled on Greek yogurt
Susan Dibblee, PA-C, Physician Assistant, Family Medicine Clinic.
