Often people associate snacking with excess calorie consumption and weight gain however quite the contrary is true. Healthy, well balanced snacks are an essential part of a fat loss plan, as well as provide valuable health benefits that you will not want to miss out on. The key to a well balanced snack is to combine protein and healthy fats with good complex carbohydrates. An ideal day would consist of 5-6 meals, 2 or 3 of them being snacks or what you might call “mini” meals.
The main misconception is in what’s considered snack food. Chips, crackers and granola bars are some of the misleading go-to snacks which DO ultimately contribute to weight gain and decreased energy levels. The concern with such “snacks” is that they are comprised of mostly sugars and starches which cause blood sugar spikes and crashes and lead to insulin sensitivity, fatigue and fat storing.
So what does a well balanced snack look like?
- Greek yogurt with mixed berries
- Whole grain crackers with guacamole or Tzatiki
- Fruit and cheese or nuts
- Hard boiled eggs
- Raw veggies with hummus
- Dark chocolate (yes, this is a well balanced snack)
- Rice crackers with cream cheese and salsa
When a snack consists of complex carbs, protein and healthy fats it increases energy levels and sustains them for a longer period of time. These types of snacks throughout the day will keep hunger at bay making you less likely to binge at your next meal. Regular snacking keeps your metabolism in check and also increases focus and performance, both at work and school.
In order to help implement these healthy habits you need to make an effort to have snacks readily available to you. Keeping a bag of nuts and seeds in your car or purse will eliminate any excuse for ravenous hunger. So stock your fridge and pantry with some essentials and snack your way to a healthy lifestyle.