(ARA) – Hunger pains and the munchies have more than half the population snacking at least once a day, but only 35 percent of those people choose more nutritious options than they did two years ago, according to a 2010 study from market researcher Technomic.
Heading to the nearest vending machine when that 3 p.m. snack break rolls around may seem like the easiest way to curb those afternoon hunger pains. But with a little creativity and planning, snacking can be fun, delicious and, more importantly, nutritious.
Stay on track this fall and into the holiday season with better-for-you snack ideas that keep your body fueled and your taste buds happy.
* Out of sight, out of mind: Keep your fridge fully stocked with only nutritious bites. If there’s no ice cream in the house, you can’t eat it … right?
* Be creative: You don’t need to buy cookies to enjoy the delicious cookie dough flavor. Now, options like ZonePerfect Cookie Dough bars – available in Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin and Peanut Butter flavors – take a creative approach to nutrition by marrying important vitamins, minerals and protein with the tasty, chewy texture of cookie dough for a hard-to-resist, on-the-go snack.
* On the road: When you know you’re going to be away from the fridge, stock your car or purse with nutritious snacks that will help you steer clear of the drive thru. Or when you’re headed to a movie, fill up beforehand so you save your cash for the ticket, not the candy bar.
* The buddy system: Partner with a colleague and take turns each week bringing nutritious snacks into the office. Ration snacks for your partner throughout the day and motivate each other in the face of temptation.
* ‘Tis the season: Snack on items that are naturally seasoned – like garlic or rosemary – rather than reaching for something high in salt. The same great taste without the additional calories and sodium.
* Dare to prepare: Use that down time after dinner to pack your snacks and lunch for the next day. Because you’re probably already full, you’ll be less likely to over pack.
* Do-it-yourself: Set aside time each day to make your own snacks, like low-fat trail mix, carrots with hummus, or rice cakes and almond butter. By making your own, you have more control over the ingredients and can avoid those that are loaded with unnecessary fat and calories.
* Divide and conquer: When you bring home a big box of cookies from the grocery store, divide them into smaller snack-sized portions and stow in individual snack bags. These visual cues will help ensure you’re not sneaking in too many in one sitting.
For more information about other nutritious snacking options, including the full line of ZonePerfect Nutrition Bars, visit www.zoneperfect.com.
