Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Healthy Snacks?

There was some talk this week at our healthy nutrition class about 'what are healthy snacks'? My views on this have certainly changed over the years because I try to view a snack like i would all other meals - making choices from nutrient dense foods that will fuel my body and get me the fuel I need to get through until my next meal (stable energy, stable blood sugar levels, stable mood). I know this sounds boring, but it's out of necessity! Keeping up with 3 kids, exercise and several 'jobs' keeps me motivated to feel at my best (most) of the time.

Here is a picture of a popular mid-morning 'snack' at my house when I'm home with my 3 year old. You've got your healthy fats in the avocado, some protein in the eggs and a side of veggies to fill me up. A little drizzle of balsamic, some olive oil and sea salt. Simple. My daughter loves it. When I'm at work I usually have a container of greens with a protein like chicken, turkey muffins, tuna or black beans. Sometimes I snack on leftovers from dinner, but I try to top it up with more greens. I always try to have some kind of baked good in the freezer - usually a paleo loaf or muffin of some kind, so on occasion I will grab a slice of lemon walnut loaf (see Janet Jacks book Discover the Power of Foods) pumpkin loaf and slather on some almond butter as a snack - depends what I'm craving.

When I think of the popular 'snack' foods like granola bars (pre-packaged), fruit yogurts, muffins (commercially prepared) or cookies I just see 'sugar bombs' - they will lead to huge spikes in blood sugar followed by a rapid drop leaving you feeling unsatisfied, tired, and craving more of the same! This creates a vicious cycle of cravings, overeating and sugar addiction.


I really encourage people to think about veggies and how to incorporate them into their snacks, otherwise it becomes a challenge to fit in the recommended amount (10 servings) throughout the day! Toss some into a smoothie, serve some sauteed greens on the side of your eggs, add them into your soups and sauces, or have them fresh in a salad. Get creative! The other thing to think about is protein - try to include it in your snacks to provide you to sustainable energy!
Happy Snacking!

Dr. Anna Falkowski HBSc, ND
Naturopathic Doctor, Clinic Director
info@vitalityforlife.ca
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