Originally posted on Healthyhelpingsnutritionservices.com

We have all pulled in to a drive thru and debated how much food to order. Persistent hunger, time constraints and fatigue all play a part in our ordering decisions. The results of our choices can be costly, both to the wallet and our health. You can change this! First, consider how hungry you are when you pull into a fast food drive thru, or grab something quickly from a vending machine. Think about when and what you last ate. Think about the food choices you make, due to feeling overly hungry. By planning snacks ahead, you can avoid making impulsive choices that will leave too-full, regretful, and further from your goals. 

Eating every few hours and choosing a variety of portion controlled foods can help you keep hunger at bay. It takes some preparation, but the payoff will be beneficial. Consider choosing 2-3 snacks a day between meals to keep you from bad choices. Here are some snack ideas:

1 medium apple and 1 tablespoon of salted almond butter

This snack gives you a nice sweet and salty combination, as well as, 6 grams of fiber to help you feel full longer. With just under 200 calories and 4 grams of protein, this snack will give you the energy you need to make it through the rest of your day and avoid snacking while you are preparing dinner.

½ cup red pepper, ½ cup green pepper, ½ cup cucumbers and 2 tablespoons Athenos Greek hummus

Looking for something crunchy? Try this combo of vegetables! Together, they are only 45 calories and high in vitamin C and antioxidants. Add 2 tablespoons of this creamy and flavorful hummus for a satisfying snack that is under 100 calories. 

100 calorie Bagged Popcorn

These individual portions of popcorn are great when if you crave something salty. Go for the 100-calorie single serving microwave popcorn or pre-popped varieties. These will satisfy a salty craving without having a lot of sodium in the bag. It is easy to pack, and there is no prep work involved.

4 Cracked Pepper and Olive Oil Triscuit crackers and 1 light Laughing Cow wedge

For about 100 calories, you can have this grown up Handi-Snack. The Laughing Cow Wedges offer a lower calorie cheese that can satisfy your craving for a fraction of the fat and calories, while still providing calcium for strong bones. They are also great on celery for a snack under 50 calories.

“Frozen Yogurt”

You have done so well, but you want ice cream?  Take a 5 oz container of nonfat Greek yogurt, 1 cup of frozen strawberries (thawed for about 5-10 minutes) and 1 tablespoon of honey (or sugar) Blend in a blender. Enjoy a large portion of frozen yogurt for under 200 calories or split it with a friend and save about 100 calories. Looking for something chocolate? Add 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder before blending.

HAPPY SNACKING!