Focus Magazine of SWFL Cheers To Your Style | Page 34
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Smart
Snacking
FAMILY FEATURES
Snacks are a common aspect of most Americans’ daily diets.
Although you may feel like stealing nibbles between meals is a
guilt-worthy offense, making smart snacking choices can actually contribute to a healthy eating plan.
According to a recent survey conducted by ORC International,
snacking is as American as apple pie. Nearly all Americans (98
percent) have snacked at least once in the last two weeks, and
the majority consumes one to two snacks every day.
You may be surprised to learn that these habits are actually
supported by leading health experts. According to staff at The
Mayo Clinic, most well-planned diets allow for snacks between
meals to help fight hunger. Numerous other experts advocate
snacks as a way to manage food intake throughout the day,
which keeps your metabolism running strong and helps you
avoid over-eating at any one meal.
If you’re like the majority of participants in the recent snacking survey, calories, portability and nutritional content, such
as protein and fiber, are top considerations when choosing a
snack.
Moderation and balance are also important to successful
snacking. To be sure you’re never caught without a smart
snacking option, consider these snacking survival tips:
• Look for snacks that combine food groups for an extra nutrition punch. For example, pair a low-fat dairy product, such
as yogurt or cottage cheese, with fresh fruit for a tasty and
satisfying treat.
• Don’t sacrifice calories for convenience. Many on-the-go bars
are loaded with sugar and lack overall nutrition, but there are
smart alternatives. Baked with pieces of real fruit and nongenetically modified ground whole soybeans, SOYJOY® is an
all-natural, certified gluten-free snack bar available in seven
delicious flavors. Each bar offers the perfect combination of
carbohydrates, plant-based protein and fiber for only 130-140
calories.
• When you need a little more to fill you up, opt for high-fiber
and high-water foods. These options let you eat more volume
without loading up the calories. Fruits and vegetables, whole
grains and nuts are all good choices when you’re feeling extra
hungry. Try 1/2 cup shelled edamame for a convenient, highfiber snack.
• Keep quick, low-calorie snacks on hand. A large apple, three
and a half cups of popcorn or a large handful of almonds
(about 23) are all under 150 calories. The key is doing the
math and measuring ahead of time so you’re not tempted to
make a less healthy choice when you’re crunched for time and
hunger strikes.
• Manage your sweet tooth with better-for-you snack options.
Every diet has room for indulgences once in a while, but save
those for special occasions. When you’re craving something
sweet, fruit can often appease your taste buds. Reach for
frozen bananas, grapes or even a baked apple sprinkled with
cinnamon.
www.soyjoy.com
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4 FOCUS of SWFL 2014