21 Days of Habit Hacks-Day 17-Hack Your SNACKS!

by | Nov 22, 2014 | General Health, Healthy Eating, Helps, Lifestyle

Yesterday we talked about the affect a lack of sleep has on your brain and body (Day 16).  Our Habit Hack (#17) for today addresses the similar impact of too little fuel. Many of us hit a ‘slump’ mid-morning; others feel it mid-afternoon, when our fuel tanks get dangerously low.  Dangerous for our ability to make healthy choices, that is!  The key is to plan for these necessary snack times because going more than 4-5 hours without nourishing our bodies can cause us to ‘crash’.  Having a nutrient rich snack with a good ratio (1:1) of protein to carbs and low in sugar (less than 20% of the carbs) and a low amount or healthy fat proves to be the best choice.  The protein and fat slow down the processing of the sugar and work to make you feel full longer and give you the energy and brain power to complete your daily responsibilities. Keeping our energy levels balanced and making healthy choices are crucial to keeping us on track with our fitness and food goals. So, instead of energy drinks, coffee, and sugary treats-let’s Hack our Snack Habits.  Remember, if it has fewer than 200 calories, it’s a snack, more that 200 calories, you may need it to be part of a meal.  Watch your portions, as usual!!

Here is a list of my favorites!

  1. Choose your snacks wisely and you will avoid those mid-afternoon 'crashes'

    Choose your snacks wisely and you will avoid those mid-afternoon ‘crashes’

    Apple (skin on) with peanut butter (less than 2 Tbls.)

  2. Low fat cheese cubes/stick with an apple (skin on, green/tart taste best)
  3. Celery with peanut butter (less than 2 Tbls.)
  4. Hummus and raw veggies
  5. Hard-boiled egg
  6. Almonds/pistachios/walnuts (cashews and peanuts have higher level of fat)
  7. No Bake Energy Bites (http://dailyburn.com/life/recipes/energy-bites-recipes/ -just watch those #s on the fat and sugar –see above for guidance)
  8. KIND bars
  9. Detour bars
  10. Reduced-fat cheese and whole grain or multi grain crackers
  11. (Low sugar) Greek Yogurt (with nut or fruit toppings-fresh blueberries and raspberries, or chia seeds  have great benefits)

If your have other great ideas for healthy snacks-tell us in the comments below!  Happy Snacking!  See you tomorrow for Day 18-Be well and make good choices-

Your Best Fitness Friend