Are you a grazer? Is snacking between meals second nature to you? Well, snacks don't have to be unhealthy. Here are some suggestions for healthy snacks that will thrill your taste buds.
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Potato chips: I can't eat just one!
We hate to say it but it's time to toss aside those potato chips and go for crunchy munchies that satisfy without all that fat. Try pretzels or air-popped popcorn for a low-fat treat. Think air-popped popcorn is dry? Spray on a little butter-flavor cooking spray to increase popcorn's appeal. If you're a spicy corn chip kind of girl, make your own
chili-cheese popcorn.
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How can I make fruit more interesting?
If you think fruit is boring, try these simple suggestions for making fruit fab. Buy or make a fruit salad with a variety of luscious fruits, including ones you might not automatically think of, like kiwi or mango. A fresh pineapple can be a special treat. Or, blend up a
fruit smoothie for a delicious drink. For a special dessert, make your own fruit trifle by layering slices of angel food cake or vanilla pound cake with sliced fruit and low-fat vanilla yogurt.
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Is snacking on nuts healthy?
Nuts are a great source of
protein, along with being a really satisfying snack. Try dry-roasted unsalted nuts or spread a thin layer of natural peanut butter (make sure it contains no trans fatty acids) on whole-grain bread or graham crackers. For a real treat, split a
warm peanut butter, honey, and peach sandwich with a friend.
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Is there a healthy way to eat chips 'n dip?
If you think chips have to be fried and dips must be loaded with sour cream to taste good, here's a twist on chips 'n dip. There are lots of low-fat baked chips at supermarkets or health foods stores, some in interesting flavors like chili lime. And, instead of Ranch or French onion dip, try salsa—it's fat-free, nutritious, and really yummy. Or, instead of sour cream, give veggies and yogurt dip a try. For another tasty treat, spread low-fat cream cheese or natural peanut butter on those raw veggies; celery sticks are especially popular because of their shape and crunch.
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Are pudding snacks healthy?
Lots of puddings are made with skim or low-fat milk and artificial sweeteners, so you can still have the consistency and sweetness of pudding, without the fat or so many calories. If you can't eat dairy products, you can still enjoy puddings made with
soymilk.
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Why are baby carrots such a popular snack?
Prewashed baby carrots don't require any preparation, and they're packed with
vitamins. They make a great snack for munching on at home or bringing with you to school or the mall.
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Is yogurt a satisfying snack?
Low-fat or non-fat yogurt, especially with fresh fruit mixed in, makes for a filling snack that's good for you. And, with all the varieties of frozen yogurt available, you can kick the ice cream habit and say goodbye (or at least see ya later) to one of the world's most fattening and high-calorie treats. If you're craving chocolate, whip up some
cocoa and yogurt dip.
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Can chewing gum prevent a snack attack?
If you tend to snack even when you're not hungry, maybe you're someone who just likes the sensation of snacking. If that's the case, chew on this: sugarless gum.
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Help! I can't stop snacking after dinner?
If you've fallen into the habit of having a midnight snack, see if you can brush it off. Drop that cookie and reach for your toothbrush to send a signal to your brain (and your mouth) that your appetite is closed for the night.
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