Sneaky Snacks

Many snacks aren’t really snacks when it comes to calories and nutrients.  For example Met Rx brand offers their Big Colossal Brownie Bar clocking in at 390 calories and 30 grams of protein.  This protein bar should be considered a “meal” not a “snack.”  Here is some food for thought.  Protein bars were originally designed for body builders who need to eat a complete meal every 2 to 3 hours in order to maintain muscle tissue.  The problem is when people who are not avid exercisers or body builders begin eating protein bars between meals as “snacks.” Although the bar is marketed as a “healthy” option it can cause weight gain. 

Yet another “healthy” snacking down fall can be those cute little 100 calorie packs such as Oreo’s, Teddy Grams, or Cheese Nips.   While the intention is good, often times we find ourselves unsatisfied at just one 100 calorie pack.  Left to our own devices we end up eating 2, 3, 4 or more of these cute little sneaky snacks.

If you are looking for a healthy and satisfying packaged snack between meals, here are a few guide lines to follow:

1) Read the nutrition facts label before you nosh. 

2) The best healthful snack bars have at least 5 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber, less than 13 grams of sugar.

3) Stick with something that is around 150 calories. 

Try out these low cal all natural snack bars options available at Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s:

KIND BAR-Cranberry Almond + Antioxidants: 190 Calories

KASHI TLC BAR- Peanut Butter: 120 Calories

LUNA BAR: 170 Calories

GO ORGANIC BAR: 180 Calories

If you like to cook and save money, check out Christine Avanti’s favorite “between meal” snack:

Momma Lydia’s Granola only 140 calories per serving!

(great for snacking, fruit parfaits or as breakfast cereal)

http://www.christineavanti.com/KLOVE-New-You-In-52.php

Listen to Christine here.