Posted December 19, 2007 by Megan Bailey

Whether you are working hard to eat a healthier diet or simply trying to lose a few pounds, it is essential to have food on hand that is both nutritious and convenient. Quick and healthy snacks that you can simply grab and go make busy lives much less stressful. Also having a well stocked kitchen with both healthy food and a variety of spices and things to cook with will help you to have the tools that you need to prepare healthy and delicious meals. Here is a fun list of suggestions that you may want to have on hand in your kitchen to help you meet your nutritional and weight loss goals. A is for Almonds (assorted nuts) as well as assorted fruits and vegetables. B is for Balsamic Vinegar. Great on salads or as a dip for French Bread. Beans are a great source of protein. C is for Cereal, canned tuna, Canola oil, low fat cottage cheese, and Craisins. D is for Dragon Fruit, a great alternative to your usual fruit choices. E is for eggs (try egg beaters), egg whites and eggplant. F is for fish (halibut, tilapia, catfish haddock, salmon, tuna, or shellfish such as shrimp, crab or lobster) G is for garlic and ginger. Great for adding some spice to your food. H is for hummus. It makes a great dip for baby carrots and celery. L is for lean meats (turkey breast, ostrich, or a well trimmed pork chop or pork tenderloin) as well as low-fat or non-fat milk. M is for Mozzarella cheese sticks, mangos, and mandarin oranges. O is for oatmeal (great for breakfast), or olive oil and onions to use while cooking. P is for peanut butter (use in moderation and try the natural brands) and pasta sauce or popcorn (try air popped or the light brands having less than 3 grams of fat per serving) Potatoes are a good choice in red, yellow, or russet varieties. Q is for quartered apples for a quick natural high fiber pick up. R is for rice (whole grain, long or brown varieties) radishes or romaine lettuce for salads. S is for spices (have a variety of salt free varieties on hand) soy products (soy milk, tofu, soy burritos for example), or sweet potatoes. T is for tomatoes, tortillas (whole wheat), or turnips. U is for unsalted butter or nuts. V is for seasonal fresh vegetables. Great for snacking, salads or vegetarian meals. W is for whole wheat breads, pitas, bagels, crackers or pasta. Also have plenty of water on hand. X is for extra virgin olive oil, extra good on salads or to use when cooking. Y is for low fat yogurt and yellow squash. Z is for zucchini for snacking, salads and side dishes. Here’s an extra challenge! Can you think of different ways to mix and match these products to create snack or meal ideas?