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Getting Satisfaction
Healthy Snacks for the New Year
By Alison Gamble
Snacking is a very important part of a person's day. Your body needs a boost between meals, and selecting the right foods to fuel your body makes a huge difference. When you are choosing a snack you should put some time and thought into it – just as you would when planning any meal. You should snack on foods that re-energize and satisfy you until your next big meal.
Go for foods with substance! Accessible, easy-to-prepare foods that are healthy are available as alternatives to soft drinks, candy and chips. Choose a grain and fruit, or grain and protein source or all three together. Together the combination will help keep you satisfied longer. Protein takes longer to digest than a simple carbohydrate (like a very sugary food, such as candy), and as a result keeps your energy level maintained. The fiber in the complex carbohydrate group also keeps you feeling full. Like protein, a complex carbohydrate takes longer for your body to digest, which helps maintain energy levels longer. Fruit is a good source of fiber and complex carbohydrate, and when combined with a protein, it can be a wonderful source of nourishment.
Here are some good snack ideas – snacks with substance!
- Cereal: This is a great snack, not just for breakfast. Add some fresh fruit and skim milk to get more fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals!
- Bagel with cream cheese and a glass of skim milk: The fat from the cream cheese will help slow digestion and maintain satiety longer. Also, go for an oatmeal or seven-grain bagel for extra fiber and more complex carbohydrate. The milk provides a good source of calcium, vitamin A and D and protein too!
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