Posted August 21, 2007 by Megan Bailey

It seems as if everyone has such a busy lifestyle that we are often eating on the run. Eating in the car or at your desk at work in a necessity for some. Without proper planning it is all too easy to grab the wrong kind of snack simply because it is convenient. Fast food and high calorie junk food is all too readily available when we get the urge to munch. Know your most vulnerable times for nibbling and plan for a healthy snack instead. Here are some suggestions for snacks that will satiate your hunger without sabotaging your healthy lifestyle.      Vegetables are great when you are craving something to crunch. You can eat them plain or try marinating them is no oil dressings or rice vinegar. You can also use seasonings like dill, garlic, or salt free blends for a little extra zest or a low fat dip. Good choices for snacking include baby carrots, bell peppers, broccoli florets, carrot or celery sticks, cucumber, cauliflower, lettuce, jicama, mushrooms, radishes, or grape tomatoes to name a few. Low sodium vegetable juice is also a great choice.      Crackers that are low in fat and sodium are another good choice. Varieties can include Crispbread, Matzoh Crackers, Harvest Crisps, Oyster Crackers, Armenia Cracker Bread, plain bread sticks, brown rice crackers, unseasoned Ry Krisp, low sodium saltines, graham crackers, pretzels, or popcorn that is low in fat. Don’t forget to read the labels on the box to see how much a portion size is and to check for fat and calorie content. There are many healthy options out there including crackers that contain whole grains.      All fresh fruits are healthy options that can help you satisfy your craving for something sweet. Try to enjoy fresh fruits instead of dried fruit or fruit juices which contain more calories. Fruit juice has more calories ounce per ounce than regular sodas. Snack size sugar free applesauce is another good choice. Try to avoid canned fruits that are packaged with added sugars.      Protein choices can include mozzarella string cheese, low fat cottage cheese, and yogurt which comes in many light, fat free, and no sugar varieties. Dry soups such as many bean soups are low fat, high fiber, delicious, and will leave you feeling satisfied. Some meal replacement bars are good too. Look at the ingredients, saturated fat, and vitamins to decide which protein bars are best. I usually recommend the Trim Advantage brand and that is what I choose for myself when I need a quick snack.      When it comes to beverages, don't forget your water. Try adding a lemon slice or Crystal Light to your water for some added flavor. Flavored and/or carbonated waters are also an option and come in many low sugar or no sugar varieties. Other choices include low sodium carrot, tomato, or vegetable juices as well as non-fat milk or buttermilk. Remember to watch your caffeine intake, but in moderation hot or iced tea or coffee or diet sodas are also an option. Also try sugar free cocoa or hot chocolate. XS is a brand that offers some great healthy energy drinks as well as sports drinks.