Healthy Snacks?

There was some talk this week at our healthy nutrition class about 'what are healthy snacks'? My views on this have certainly changed over the years because I try to view a snack like i would all other meals - making choices from nutrient dense foods that will fuel my body and get me the fuel I need to get through until my next meal (stable energy, stable blood sugar levels, stable mood). I know this sounds boring, but it's out of necessity! Keeping up with 3 kids, exercise and several 'jobs' keeps me motivated to feel at my best (most) of the time.

Here is a picture of a popular mid-morning 'snack' at my house when I'm home with my 3 year old. You've got your healthy fats in the avocado, some protein in the eggs and a side of veggies to fill me up. A little drizzle of balsamic, some olive oil and sea salt. Simple. My daughter loves it. When I'm at work I usually have a container of greens with a protein like chicken, turkey muffins, tuna or black beans. Sometimes I snack on leftovers from dinner, but I try to top it up with more greens. I always try to have some kind of baked good in the freezer - usually a paleo loaf or muffin of some kind, so on occasion I will grab a slice of lemon walnut loaf (see Janet Jacks book Discover the Power of Foods) pumpkin loaf and slather on some almond butter as a snack - depends what I'm craving.

When I think of the popular 'snack' foods like granola bars (pre-packaged), fruit yogurts, muffins (commercially prepared) or cookies I just see 'sugar bombs' - they will lead to huge spikes in blood sugar followed by a rapid drop leaving you feeling unsatisfied, tired, and craving more of the same! This creates a vicious cycle of cravings, overeating and sugar addiction.


I really encourage people to think about veggies and how to incorporate them into their snacks, otherwise it becomes a challenge to fit in the recommended amount (10 servings) throughout the day! Toss some into a smoothie, serve some sauteed greens on the side of your eggs, add them into your soups and sauces, or have them fresh in a salad. Get creative! The other thing to think about is protein - try to include it in your snacks to provide you to sustainable energy!
Happy Snacking!

Dr. Anna Falkowski HBSc, ND
Naturopathic Doctor, Clinic Director
info@vitalityforlife.ca
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