10 Ways To Snack Smarter

Nutrition is the most important element in weight loss programs, and for most people, is the most difficult factor to control. Even those who have established healthy meals as a traditional part of each day can be defeated by the deadly temptation of unhealthy snacking. See the results of your sacrifice and diligence by learning to snack smarter, instead of working harder.

Cut Veggies Into Slices

Veggies are an excellent snack that is easily preserved and portable. Make snacking enjoyable by preparing and cutting up your vegetables in advance. If you have larger vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, or celery, try cutting these into smaller portion sizes. This will help you to eat consciously, one piece at a time.

Chew More And Eat Slowly

Taking your time while you are eating will help you to monitor your hunger levels. You may find that you have eaten way too much if you eat too quickly. Take your time and ask yourself the question, "Am I still hungry?"

Prepare In Advance

Preparing your food in advance will ensure that you are making conscious, healthy decisions before you are even hungry. Often, when hungry, people find whatever is the quickest, closest, and cheapest food available. Typically, this is not going to be the healthiest option available.

Always Carry Fruit

Fruit is a great snack that has healthy sugars to curb deadly cravings, and it is also very portable. Always carry around an apple, pear, or banana, so that when the cravings come, you will be ready. Apples are a great choice because they typically have a high satiety, allowing you to comfortably wait until the next meal to further indulge.

Avoid Vending Machines

Vending machines can contain a wide variety of healthy foods and tempting junk foods as well. When the moment comes and you find yourself staring at the Snickers bar and the apple, your belly crying for the delicious chocolate, rather than the healthy fruit, you will understand why skipping the vending machine is the best option.

Pay Attention To Portion Size

Portion size is very important, and it must always be observed when purchasing snacks. Some nutrition facts panels are tricky, illustrating incredibly low calorie content. They try to hide the fact that they have minimized the portion sizes, doubling the serving sizes inside, and also inversely skewing the true nutritional information. It is better to eat smaller portions more frequently, than to eat larger portions less frequently.

Don’t Buy Junk Food

You won't eat junk food unless you buy junk food. Save yourself the decision in the kitchen by making the decision in the grocery store. Shop healthy to eat healthy and be healthy.

Indulge In A Small Treat

Planned cheats are much more effective than defeat cheats. Often, when you break down and indulge in a treat, you may find yourself discouraged and continue indulging. By preparing to cheat and making it part of your schedule, you are able to make a conscious decision that will allow you to limit your cheat to a healthy portion.

Go Nuts

Try carrying around a small portion of various nuts. Almonds, cashews, walnuts, and pistachios are a healthy and delicious combination. When you feel the hunger coming on, trying popping a couple of these into your mouth. Your belly will greatly appreciate the healthy unsaturated fats, and you will be more satisfied. Be careful not to unconsciously eat large serving sizes of nuts; limit yourself to a moderate handful.

Eat Because You’re Hungry

Make sure that you are eating because you are hungry, not because you are bored. Often, eating can be a method of tradition to pass the time. Some activities seem to just go together, such as popcorn and the movies. Always determine your true hunger before snacking, and re-evaluate while snacking. Stop when you are no longer hungry, not when you are full.