Food is fuel, and in March, we celebrate National Nutrition Month to promote healthy lifestyles for our patients! We tend to focus on the three main meals of the day to reach our nutritional needs, but we can sometimes overlook snacks that can provide important protein, vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats.
A reasonable amount of healthy, flavor-packed snacks throughout the day can help improve your mood, energy, muscle recovery, and much more! Put your best fork forward and keep that tank full with these tips from your local family doctor in the RGV.
Sweet and Salty
Arguably the best combination ever, sweet and salty snacks have what it takes to satisfy that sweet tooth and curb your cravings.
A mix of fruit, dark chocolate, nuts, and granola is a snack that comes in many satisfying shapes and flavors. With different mixes (or should I say perfect matches) in trail mix, cereal, granola bars, oatmeal, and yogurt bowls, there’s something out there that’ll attract even the pickiest of eaters.
Movie Theater Nostalgia
Speaking of sweet and salty, popcorn comes in an array of flavors, and the right variety can be a healthy alternative to chips.
While kettle corn, butter-lovers, and cheddar are great-tasting, air-popped is best as a healthy substitute. Still, there are a variety of flavor shakers that are low in calories, sodium, and fat to keep you munching during movie night.
Break Bread and Dip It
Guacamole, hummus, salsa, spinach, and the list goes on for delicious dips to match your spread. With so many to choose from, the hardest part isn’t transitioning to something healthy, it’s trying to pick out your favorite.
While you’re at it, toss the chips and dive in with fruits, veggies, pretzels, and even tortilla chips for an all-around nutritional snack.
The Best of Both Worlds
Instead of strolling down the pastry aisle, visit the nutrition section in your local grocery store, and trade in those sugar-filled snacks for the upgraded models.
The upside is they’re packed with all the nutrients that keep your body happy and healthy.
The downside? Who are we kidding, there aren’t any, and your taste buds won’t know the difference. With cookies, brownies, chocolate bars, and more that look and taste just like your favorite treats, you’ll be like a kid in a candy store.
Protein-Packed
It can be pretty difficult to reach your protein goal for the day. Luckily, there are so many savory snacks you can effortlessly munch on between meals.
• Jerky — With a variety of flavors and types, it’s no surprise that jerky takes the top spot on our protein-packed list.
• Hard-boiled eggs — Whether you’re a yoke or no-yoke person, there’s no denying that eggs are filling. And that’s all thanks to the protein punch they pack.
• Tuna — You can find tuna in portable packages and with so many great flavors to choose from. Add some greek yogurt and lime, and you’ve got yourself a delicious healthy alternative to the classic tuna salad.
• Peanut butter celery sticks— If meat’s not on your menu, peanut butter with celery is a savory snack that’s sure to fill you and your protein count up.
Snacks can pack a serious nutritional punch in your diet, so don't hold back on account of your healthy lifestyle! Instead, prioritize snacks that fill your body with all the good things that keep it running strong.
Join your local family doctor at Healthy Lifestyles RGV Medical Clinic in celebrating a healthy and nutritional lifestyle every day of the year, not just in March.
