How To Choose Low-Calorie Snacks?
If you are trying to lose weight and eat healthy meals the grocery store can be a real challenge. Every single aisle is filled with delicious and enticing snacks, meals and prepackaged foods waiting for consumers to make a purchase. Learn how to choose the right snacks.
Selecting the right foods that will promote weight loss doesn't have to be complicated or frustrating. The healthiest snacks are whole foods like nuts, dried fruits, Vegetables, fresh organic fruit, yogurt, hard boiled eggs, and granola.
Purchasing prepackaged foods is convenient however some of the nutritional value may be lost in the processing and some of the ingredients could promote weight gain.
Studies show that if you go grocery shopping while you are hungry you will be likely to purchase more junk food.
If you go shopping after you have eaten you will be less hungry and more likely to stay on track with a healthy eating plan. Check out these tips on how to choose healthy snacks.
Reading Labels
It is important to read the labels on the back of each product you purchase to see exactly what the nutritional value is and what the ingredients are. Learn how to choose healthy snacks just by reading the labels. Look for natural, organic foods with less sugar and preservatives. The fewer the ingredients the better.
Get Baked Goods
If you must eat chips get the baked version to cut down on calories and unhealthy fats or opt in for bean chips that have more protein and fiber. Bake your own pita chips and control the salt and oil used to make this a healthy snack.
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Limit Sugar Fix
Read the labels on the products you choose if the labels include the ingredients called high fructose, corn or maple syrup, sugar, cane sugar or dextrose then that is an indication that the product contains high levels of sweeteners.
Those products will promote weight gain. Choose instead products that have low levels of sweeteners added to them or products that are sugar-free. Once you cut back on sugary foods and drinks you will see a reduction in weight and cravings for the wrong foods.
Gourmet Nuts!
Nuts provide a great source of nutrients, protein and are readily available in most supermarkets.
Take your ordinary nuts to a whole new level by making gourmet nut snacks in under 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. Place the nuts in a single layer of your choice on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
Place the nuts in the oven for 15 minutes. Turn the nuts with a spatula to bake evenly. Bake the nuts for another 10 - 15 minutes until the nuts are lightly browned and toasted.
Remove the nuts from the oven and place the nuts in a large bowl. Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil or almond oil. Spray oils are also available. Stir the nuts to coat with the oil. Sprinkle your favorite seasoning to taste.
Store in an airtight container or freezer for 3 weeks. Experiment with different nut and seasoning combinations to create healthy snacks your whole family will enjoy. Try flavors like cinnamon spice, hot and spicy, Thai, Butter Sage, ( made with spray butter substitute) or garlic seasoning. Stay away from sugary nuts and your waistline will thank you.
Beware of Empty Calories
Processed food often contains a high caloric content however it may seriously lack healthy calories. Don't always count calories when choosing foods.
Look instead for the nutritional value and ingredients. If you snack on a 200-calorie dessert bar or ice cream treat that may contain high levels of sugar and trans fats.
Choose low-fat yogurt, nuts, string cheese, guacamole, 8 whole wheat crackers or organic fruit to satisfy your hunger.
Consider Portion Control
When choosing snacks and foods check the portions on the label. You may purchase a bag of nuts and think you can eat the whole bag and consume 200 calories.
At the top of each label, it will give your the portion of each serving. The portion maybe 1/4 cup is equal to 200 Calories. If you ate the whole bag of nuts you may consume 1000 calories without realizing it.
Once you learn how to measure the correct portions for each food group like dairy, meats, nuts, fruits, and vegetables you will have more control over your diet and your weight.
Turkey Jerky Protein Snack
Think Gourmet grass fed turkey, bison jerky meats. This is not your conventional jerky treat. These are naturally made and dried meats packed with protein to increase your energy levels and tame your hunger pains. Look for these tasty meats in a grocery store near you.
Is Gluten-Free Really A Better Choice?
Gluten-free does not always mean good for you. Gluten products often contain high levels of sugar, sodium, chemicals, and simple, carbohydrates.
Natural Sprouts and Grains
Sprouts are a great way to add extra vitamins and minerals to your diet without adding extra calories. Some grocery stores offer sprouts at the salad bar or produce section.
Sprout your own grains and have a fresh supply readily available to you at any time. Sprouts can be added to salads, Entrees, smoothies or garnish soups and stews. Add a little extra crunch to a basic meal and make it special.
For more information get your free copy of Weight Loss Diet Tips. There you will discover the secrets to losing weight using proven strategies taught by experts who know how to get results using the latest diet and fitness information available. Click Here for more details.
Stay Healthy
Patricia Lynn
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