Healthy Snacking to Fight Food Cravings
By Sara Butler
No one is immune to food cravings. Everyone has them, but they don’t have to control your life -- or your dietary choices. Here are a few ways you can snack smart to help you avoid cravings and stay healthy.
Water
Yes, water can be a snack. It’s also a very important part of your overall health and wellness, and though you may not think of it as a snack, it’s very beneficial to help you control your cravings. That’s because if you’re dehydrated you may actually mistake thirst for hunger and begin mindless snacking when all you really need is a tall glass of water.
If the plain taste of water just doesn’t do it for you, then consider adding some fruit or herbs. Try adding strawberries or citrus fruit to your water or maybe a little mint. You can even buy coconut water to help you stay hydrated while providing your body with natural sugars and electrolytes it needs to stay healthy.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are great snacks because they are full of healthy fats and protein that help you to stay fuller for longer. Pumpkin seeds, pistachios, and sunflower seeds are all great items to keep on hand for snacking, but just remember to keep the servings to a minimum since they also happen to be high in calories.
Vegetables and Fruits
Vegetables and fruits often make good snacks because they’re high in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. Just be careful to enjoy fruit in moderation since they often have a high natural sugar content. That makes them a great weapon in your fight against sugar cravings, but also means you have to keep an eye on just how much you have. A fruit free-for-all may not help you meet your health and wellness goals, but they’re still an important part of a balanced diet.
Vegetables are often quite low in calories but high in fiber, making them a great choice for a snack. They also pack a crunch that can make for a satisfying snack that will fill you up.
The secret to snacking smart is to think about what you’re craving and then find a healthier replacement for it. Experiment and see what helps you to keep your cravings under control without making you feel as if you’re giving up too much to be happy in your pursuit of health.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Fort Mill, S.C.