(NC) - With the right food choices, snacking can be a very smart idea.
In fact, dietitians tell us it's important to balance snacks with meals throughout the day. This combination makes the most of our metabolism and keeps our energy levels consistent.
Young children benefit especially from snacks, since they have smaller stomachs and often have trouble eating all the foods they need at a mealtime.
Smart snacking may need some planning however. Resisting the temptation for a less nutritious snack when you're on the go can be countered by packing better choices from home.
Dietitians suggest we avoid snacks high in calories, fat, sugar and salt and that includes buttered popcorn, cakes, candies, chips, chocolate, cookies, doughnuts, French fries, granola bars, and sugary beverages. If you would like to know more about smart food choices, you are invited to make a toll-free call to speak personally to a registered dietitian. The EatRight Ontario call centre can be reached at 1-877-510-5102 between 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., EST. The program - a new partnership between the Ontario Ministry of Health Promotion and Dietitians of Canada - offers trustworthy nutrition information free-of-charge to all Ontario residents.
Snacks to grab and go:
Fresh fruit or individually packed containers of cut-up fruit.
Raw vegetables, including carrots, peppers, zucchini, cherry or grape tomatoes.
Baby carrots, hummus, and whole-wheat pita triangles.
Pumpernickel bagel with peanut butter and banana.
Fresh, frozen or canned fruit with low-fat yogurt.
Sweet red, yellow or green peppers and bread sticks with low-fat salad dressing or dip.
Whole-wheat tortilla wrap with salmon or tuna salad, onions, celery and green peppers.
English muffin with melted cheese and apple slices.
Dry mixed cereal and a container of milk.
Dark green leafy salad with orange sections and almonds.
Share On Twitter
