Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Healthy Snack Ideas

Snacking is often regarded as a bad behavior and restricted or eliminated from our diets. However, snacks can be an important part of your nutritious eating plan if the foods you choose are healthy and contribute to a well-balanced diet. Snacking is not just for children — adults need snacks as well. Healthy snacks provide extra energy for exercise and help sustain energy until you eat another meal. Choosing healthy snacks between meals can also prevent overeating by reducing hunger at mealtimes. Snacking can be good for you, but remember,  snack calories count in your total calories for the day. Make sure to pick healthy, low-calorie snacks and skip the junk food.  Here are a few options.
Papaya-Berry Yogurt Parfait
·  3 containers (5.3 ounces each) plain nonfat Greek yogurt
·  5 tablespoons honey
·  1 1/2 teaspoons grated lemon zest, plus 1 tablespoon juice
·  1 piece fresh ginger (about 2 inches)
·  1 papaya (1 pound), peeled, halved lengthwise, seeds discarded, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
·  1 package (6 ounces) fresh blackberries
·  1 package (6 ounces) fresh raspberries
·  1/4 cup chopped fresh mint, plus sprigs for garnish
·  1/2 cup granola
ONLY 164 CALORIES!
Double Dark- Chocolate and Ginger Biscotti
·  1 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
·  1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
·  1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
·  1/4 teaspoon salt
·  1 large egg, plus 1 large egg yolk
·  1/2 cup sugar
·  1 teaspoon vanilla extract
·  1/4 cup canola oil
·  1/2 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped
·  3 ounces dark chocolate, coarsely chopped (1/2 cup)
·  1/4 cup finely chopped crystallized ginger
ONLY 84 CALORIES!

By: Beatrice Ponce

No comments:

Post a Comment