This week I want to talk about snacking. I don’t know about you, but February always sees me getting the munchies. With Valentine’s Day coming up, it is especially difficult to avoid the siren call of chocolate covered coconut bars and nougat. Sometimes I think I’ll wake up in a sea of wrappers with how absent-mindedly I tend to munch. I really don’t know how it happens, it’s almost like they breed in my house. So what are some things that you can eat when you get that urge to binge on candy?
- Nuts. Nuts are a great snack, just so long as you’re not allergic to them! My personal favorites are cashews and pistachios, but obviously you should eat what ones you like. They’re a great source of protein and are super simple to eat when you’re in that munchy mood. Try getting a blend and seeing what ones you enjoy the most. Just do your best to not get ones that are too salted, as that can add calories.
- Dried Fruit. While fruit normally seems like a great snack, it isn’t always available or particularly nutritious due to the amount of natural sugar. Dried fruit makes it much easier to get your fix even if it’s out of season and can generally be a healthier alternative than the full-size version.
- Vegetables. Obviously, veggies are going to be on a list of healthy foods. Try different kinds, like cucumbers, radishes, carrots, and celery. Try cutting out the additions like salad dressing or dips and you can make it even more nutritious!
- Hard Boiled Egg. Although this option isn’t exactly vegan friendly, a hard-boiled egg can be a super healthy quick snack. You can prepare them days ahead of time and grab one in the morning before heading out the door. Add a little bit of pepper for some flavor if you find it to be too bland.
While not all of these snacks will be as tasty as a chocolate covered everything bar, they are infinitely better for you. Remember, everything is fine in moderation but if you find yourself needing a snack, try reaching for the can of cashews before the box of Valentine’s Day candy.
