By Nicola Cucuiet and Sylvia Klinger
Every body has surely dealt with hunger attacks before regular meals. Our body is trying to tell you that your energy levels are low, and could use a boost. The important thing to do, is to try to provide your body with foods that will provide the right amounts of quality nutrients, that will enable your body to refuel it’s energy levels as well as satisfy your hunger, without unbalancing your calorie need.
There are a number of delicious snacks that embody all the required attributes in order to create the ultimate snack. All it takes is a little imagination and some meal planning, and the world of nutritious and delicious snacks will open before your eyes. Here are some examples of low calorie treats, that are nutritious and under 100 calories. Turn to them before your workout, in between meals, or every time you feel like you need an energy booster or you are just hungry.
Fruit yogurt
½ cup of non fat Greek yogurt with one table spoon of you favorite fruit jam will make the most delicious and nutritious snack . Many yogurts contain active good bacteria called ”probiotics.” These probiotics can have important health benefits. Also the consumption of yogurt provides you with a lean protein, plus several other nutrients found in dairy foods, like calcium, vitamin B-2, B-12, potassium, and magnesium.
Strawberries Strawberries pack a powerful nutritional punch. One cup of strawberries(about 8) provide essential vitamins, fiber, potassium and vitamin C. I can’t think of a more delicious fruit!
Oranges
One orange, tangerine or mandarin, the size of your fist, have many benefits associated with it s name. First of all oranges with all the members of it s family, are a grate source of dietary fiber and are very low in calories. Members from the citrus family, are rich in vitamin C, and also contains a variety of phytochemicals that have a positive effect on human health. Oranges also contain vitamin A, B-complex vitamins and minerals like potassium and calcium.
Fruit smoothies
Fruit smoothies give you the fiber and nutrients you need. There are endless combinations, that will keep you palate satisfied. If you choose to make a fruit smoothie as your snack option, prepare it with low fat milk or yogurt, this way you will have a light and delicious snack option that will give you the vitamin boost you need.
Ranch dip and vegetables
For this snack you can use your favorite vegetable, but try to mix them up to get the most out of each and every one of them. Use some grape tomatoes, baby carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, cauliflower and anything else you prefer. The combination between the low fat dip and the vegetables is not only delicious but is packed with minerals and vitamins that will energize your day. You can also use a variety of other dip options like hummus, tzatiki sauce or even olive oil with balsamic vinegar and a pinch of salt.
Hard boiled eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are naturally high in protein and provide important “heart healthy fats”. One large hard-boiled egg provides nearly 80 calories and a variety of vitamins like vitamin A that protects you against the risk of night blindness, vitamin D promotes the absorption of calcium and regulates calcium levels in your blood. Eggs have one of the highest quality proteins. Remember moderation is the key.
Live life and love it. Eat well.
