Snack foods are not meant
to be eaten as a main meal, but to satisfy a sudden burst of hunger.
Snacks also provide a minor supply of energy for the body or are
simply used to provide enjoyment for the palate. There are a variety
of snacks that can be consumed which represent a wide range of
options for dieters.
Today, dieters are
investigating which snacks are better for the type of goals that
they have set for themselves. They are taking into consideration
factors such as nutrition, diet, health benefits, as well as how
well the snacks can be used to control weight. This means that there
are many who are putting down the junk food and replacing these
vices with more healthy, natural options, such as fresh fruit, dried
fruit, carrot sticks, nuts and granola bars.
The Top 4 Snacks
for Dieting
1) Yogurt
Yogurt provides
essential nutrients, as well as essential proteins, vitamins and
carbohydrates. If you are looking to shed a few pounds, low-fat or
non-fat yogurt is suggested. Try picking up a non-fat vanilla option
and add a variety of fruits for a healthy snack. An advantage of
yogurt is that there are plenty of flavors to choose from, making a
snack that you may not tire of as quickly.
2)
Low-Fat Jell-O
Low-fat Jell-O offers a
perfect snack alternative. For those who don't like yogurt or
require a little more variety, low-fat Jell-O is a perfect snack.
Choose this selection when you need something to tide you over until
the next meal.
3) Fruits and
Vegetables
Not only are fruits
and vegetables needed to complete a healthy, balanced diet, but also
they make great snacks between meals. Some of the best vegetable
snacks include carrots, celery, as well as red and green
peppers. Great fruit snacks provide a burst of sweetness when you
crave something sweet. Some of these options include apples, grapes,
pears, oranges, tangerines, sliced cantaloupe and bananas. When you
are on the go, you can easily pack a few raw veggies and fresh fruit
pieces in a convenient Ziploc baggie.
4) Rice Cakes
Rice cakes are healthy,
low-fat and low in calories. There are a variety of flavors to
choose from, including natural, barbecue, salt and vinegar, caramel,
even sour cream and onion. One drawback that you will find with rice
cakes is that they are high in carbohydrates. Also watch out for the
flavored varieties if you are watching your salt intake. A tip to
remember is that you can shake off excess salt before eating.
Below you will find a nice
list of snacks that are great when dieting:
Snack Foods for Dieting
Smoothies
Fresh Fruits
Raw Vegetables
Berries
Oranges
Grapefruit
Melons
Pears
Pineapple
Berries
Tangerines
Broccoli
Celery
Carrots
Cucumbers
Tomatoes
Unsweetened Fruit and
Vegetable Juices
Grains
Unsweetened Cereals
Unbuttered Popcorn
Baked Tortilla Chips
Plain Crackers
Low-Salt Pretzels
Low or Non-Fat Milk
Low or Non-Fat Yogurt
Low or Non-Fat Cheeses
Low or Non-Fat Cottage
Cheese
Nuts
Seeds
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds