Sunday, June 2, 2013

Snack Snack Snack-aroo

I am a believer in snacking. It keeps me from getting so hungry that I make terrible decisions at meal times.  With that being said, snacking can be dangerous as it packs on calories if you are not making smart decisions.  I have a daily food routine at work.  I have a cup of coffee on my way to work, breakfast when I get in around 8, a snack at 10:30, lunch at 12:30, afternoon snack between 3 and 4.  My morning snack is usually a little more hearty as I usually don't fill up too much at breakfast.  I tend to reach for some fruit or veggies and some cheese.  I like to have a little protein with my snacks, it helps keep the snack working so I am not getting too hungry too early.  In the afternoon I usually crave something salty and I have been known to grab for some cheesy crackers or peanut butter from the vending machine.  I always feel yucky after this.  If I am on my game I pack some nuts or some carrots and hummus for the afternoon.  This past week I discovered two new products that I adore for snacking.

Number One: Skinny Pop
One of our salesmen brought in some bags of this to the office.  I tried a few pieces and I fell in love.  I am not usually a fan of pre-popped popcorn.  I think it tastes stale.  This popcorn is nice and fresh.  There are three ingredients: popcorn, sunflower oil and salt.  No preservatives.  It is filling and satisfies that salty crunch that a lot of people look for in the afternoon.  The best news is you can have like 2.5 cups of the stuff for only 100 calories.

Number 2: Dole Banana Dippers
This one probably isnt a snack I would take to work, but it is great for that after dinner before bed I am hungry again feeling.  100 calories and only 7 grams of sugar.  It is simply slices of banana dipped in dark chocolate and frozen in packs of 4.  Frozen bananas are really something special.  They are creamy and taste a little like ice cream.

What are your favorite healthy snack options?