I want to help you improve your snacking habits this week!
One of the first things I hear chronic dieters say to me is, "I'm trying to snack less often." I know what they mean, but my first reaction is always to help them re-frame what snacking looks like.
Often when we think of snacking, we associate it with the habit of mindlessly eating processed foods. Choosing foods like potato chips, candy, crackers, cookies, fruit snacks, and more.
The key phrase being the mindlessly eating part! Healthy snacks start with mindfulness. Preparing convenient foods to eat to control our hunger throughout the day until we eat our next meal, is a habit we should all aim to include in a healthy lifestyle.
You don't need to stop snacking to be healthier.
You need to start snacking mindfully.
Snack plates or packing a variety of foods for the day can help meet your nutritional needs and taste preferences at the same time!
The key points I want to make when it comes to healthy snacking habits are:
Pair protein + fiber rich carbs together
Eat with awareness of your environment, emotional status, and hunger level
Choose foods that you enjoy
Prepare foods in advance to make the "healthy" option, the most convenient option
Make decisions around snacking that are aligned with your goals
The following are ideas and pictures of snacks I enjoy! Feel free to get creative and make your own combinations with foods you love.
I hope these snacking tips help you let go of Diet Culture's view of snacking and give you the freedom to honor your body's hunger throughout the day. If you want more ideas and recipes, check out my Pinterest board for snacking!