Snacks can fit into a healthy eating plan and provide an energy boost between meals. Choosing nutritious foods from all food groups can help increase variety and reduce sources of empty calories and added sugar.
Below are some smart snacking tips:
1. Snacking only when you’re hungry. Eating out of boredom or for emotional reasons can lead to weight gain. Assess your hunger before reaching for a snack. Hint! Your stomach is growling or your feeling low energy.
2. Having snacks planned and portioned out ahead of time. Fixing snacks in advance, like washed and cut-up fruits and vegetables, air-popped popcorn, and low-fat cheese, can save time later on and can prevent you from overeating.
3. Reading nutrition labels. Make sure to check the amount of calories, sugar, sodium, and fats. Aim for a snack that is less than 200 calories, less than 10 grams of sugar, and less than 3 grams of saturated fat.