The 10 Commandments of Snacking Snacking not only wards off hanger (hungry anger), it can fill the holes in your daily nutrition and weight-loss goals too. But since healthy snacking is all about the right choices, let the 10 commandments of snacking be your guide. From choosing a right pre-workout bite to using snacks to satisfy cravings, these rules are here to help (not doom) your diet! 1. Thou Shalt Measure It Out Once you choose a snack, measure out the appropriate serving, leave the kitchen, and sit down to enjoy it. Avoid eating straight from the box of cereal or while standing at the kitchen counter, because youre more likely to keep going back for more (and more!). 2. Thou Shalt Fill in the Gaps Use snacks to fill in the holes in your diet. If you didnt get your greens in at lunch, munch on a few veggies in the afternoon. This will ensure you have a well-balanced diet — not to mention fruits and veggies are lower in calories and higher in nutritional value than a handful of candy. 3. Thou Shalt Acknowledge Cravings Cant stop daydreaming about chocolate? Dont try to suppress it. Instead, see if you can come up with a diet-friendly alternative thatll satisfy the craving so you dont over indulge later on. Try these healthy chocolate snacks that wont undo your diet. 4. Thou Shalt Keep It Under 200 Calories Its important to keep snacks between 150 and 200 calories, especially if youre trying to lose weight. Although this sounds small, there are plenty of options under 150 calories that are satisfying and filling. 5. Thou Shalt Consider the Workout The right snack is key to a good workout and recovery. Pre-workout snacks should offer a combo of protein and carbs, and you should nosh on your snack about 30 minutes before setting out to exercise. For a good recovery, also choose post-workout snacks that are a combo of protein and carbs to build and repair muscle and quickly recoup lost energy. 6. Thou Shalt Pair With Water Fill a reusable water bottle or a glass with natures beverage, and sip a few ounces after each bite of snack. The water will help you feel full and satisfied without adding any calories. 7. Thou Shalt Savor It Since snacks are small, make your snack last at least 15 minutes and really savor each bite. Slowing down when eating will help you feel satiated by the time you finish, which will prevent you from wanting to reach for more. Dont forget to apply the same rule for meals too! 8. Thou Shalt Make It a Triple Threat Dont just reach for a handful of crackers. For a satisfying snack, the right combination of proteins, carbs, and fats will keep you feeling full and allow your blood sugar levels to stabilize so you dont crash and burn. Stick to a combination of fruits, veggies, and bread with nuts, yogurt, or cheese. 9. Thou Shalt Pack It When youre on the go, youre likely to snatch up whichever snack is most convenient (cough cough, chips!). Rather than settling for unhealthy picks, make sure that you always have a healthy choice on hand. Keep protein-packed energy bars or a small bag of nuts in your purse so that youre never forced to go with an unhealthy on-the-go option. 10. Thou Shalt Make It a Do For Weight Loss Although youre consuming calories, snacking can actually help you lose weight. It satiates your hunger, making you less likely to reach for high-calorie treats when youre beyond starving or to eat more at dinner than you normally would. Share it with all! Getting Skinny and Fit Naturally with Patricia
Posted on: Tue, 05 Nov 2013 19:25:25 +0000
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