Make your snacks healthier
Most people need a few small snacks to get them through the day, particularly if they're doing a lot of physical activity or have a particularly challenging day in the office. Furthermore, the fast-paced nature of modern living means that many of us don't always have time to sit down for three full meals, which makes snacking an important way to make sure we continue to get the energy and nutrients we need on a daily basis.
The habit of eating between meals has been given a bad name in recent years, mainly because many of the foods associated with snacking - crisps, chocolate bars, sweets and biscuits - are not the healthiest items on the supermarket shelves. Many nutritional experts agree that snacking in itself is not a bad thing, but people should be careful about which foods they choose. With a bit of planning and forward-thinking, it is relatively easy to swap traditional snack foods for healthier alternatives.
Rather than reaching for a packet of biscuits or a chocolate bar next time you feel a bit peckish, why not go for some fresh vegetables? Carrots, celery and peppers can all be easily chopped into sticks and enjoyed with a low-fat dip of your choice. For people who spend all day at work, this is the kind of delicious snack that takes just minutes to prepare to advance. It also makes a refreshing change to the usual packet of crisps or chocolate from the office vending machine.
Similarly, consuming plenty of fresh fruit is a great way to make your everyday snacks healthier, as well as ensuring you have the recommended five a day. Eating a banana should provide a similar energy boost as a bar of chocolate, but without the high levels of fat and sugar.
Those who feel a bit more adventurous may like to combine pieces of their favourite fruit with some low-fat yoghurt, which also makes a great healthy snack on its own. Plain yoghurt is a valid source of nutrients because it is rich in protein and vitamins. As well as fruit, it can be enjoyed with cereal and granola, or made into a smoothie. You could also sprinkle with some Canderel Granules to add a touch of sweetness.
Either way, you can still satisfy that mid-morning tummy rumble without consuming lots of extra calories if you just make smart choices.
The habit of eating between meals has been given a bad name in recent years, mainly because many of the foods associated with snacking - crisps, chocolate bars, sweets and biscuits - are not the healthiest items on the supermarket shelves. Many nutritional experts agree that snacking in itself is not a bad thing, but people should be careful about which foods they choose. With a bit of planning and forward-thinking, it is relatively easy to swap traditional snack foods for healthier alternatives.
Rather than reaching for a packet of biscuits or a chocolate bar next time you feel a bit peckish, why not go for some fresh vegetables? Carrots, celery and peppers can all be easily chopped into sticks and enjoyed with a low-fat dip of your choice. For people who spend all day at work, this is the kind of delicious snack that takes just minutes to prepare to advance. It also makes a refreshing change to the usual packet of crisps or chocolate from the office vending machine.
Similarly, consuming plenty of fresh fruit is a great way to make your everyday snacks healthier, as well as ensuring you have the recommended five a day. Eating a banana should provide a similar energy boost as a bar of chocolate, but without the high levels of fat and sugar.
Those who feel a bit more adventurous may like to combine pieces of their favourite fruit with some low-fat yoghurt, which also makes a great healthy snack on its own. Plain yoghurt is a valid source of nutrients because it is rich in protein and vitamins. As well as fruit, it can be enjoyed with cereal and granola, or made into a smoothie. You could also sprinkle with some Canderel Granules to add a touch of sweetness.
Either way, you can still satisfy that mid-morning tummy rumble without consuming lots of extra calories if you just make smart choices.
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