5 Tips for Snacking Healthier at Home

Melissa Perry, RD, LD/N
Registered Dietitian, Orlando Health Medical Group

Are you bored, stressed or hungry between meals? If so, you’ll likely find yourself snacking throughout the day. Everyone snacks, but it’s what you’re snacking on that is important. You may be hungry when you get home from work or in a rush to get the kids to soccer practice. No matter what situation you’re in, it’s important to snack in moderation and choose healthy choices.

Here are some tips to choose nutrient-rich foods and to help you snack smart:

Plan Ahead

Just as you may plan your meals ahead for the week, try planning your snacks as well.
Stock up on easy to grab foods, such as fresh fruit (apples, bananas, berries), vegetables (baby carrots, sliced bell peppers, celery sticks), single serving yogurts or string cheese.

Snack Mindfully

Try not to mindlessly eat while doing something else, It’s easy to get distracted and lose track of how much you ate out of the bag while watching TV or on the computer.
Take a few minutes to focus on what you’re eating and how much.

Choose Snacks that Satisfy

Select protein rich and high fiber snacks, such as natural peanut butter on a slice of 100% whole wheat bread, plain, low-fat yogurt with blueberries, or a low-fat cheese stick and baby carrots.
Foods high in protein and fiber are keys to producing satiety and help hold you over until the next meal.

Convenience

Keep snacks on hand. Make it a habit to keep unsalted nuts, whole wheat crackers or an apple in your purse or workout bag so you have something available at all times.

Portion Control

Instead of snacking right out of the bag, measure out proper portions ahead of time. Be sure to read the nutrition label to see what is considered a “serving size” and how many number of “servings per container”.