10 Healthy Snacks to Battle Holiday Weight Gain
November 29, 2013
The holidays are a very hectic time of year for many people. There are so many extra errands that need to be done during the holidays that it is almost inevitable that I spend too much time in the car. I find myself stopping at the store for extra ingredients I need to bake, dropping off dry cleaning, stopping at the school for a party or concert, and dropping off donations in our community. All this running around leads to snacking and eating on the run.
The temptation to drive through the drive through for a latte and a donut is always there. Some days, I feel like it’s calling to me despite my resolve to stay away. Planning ahead can make a huge difference in how much willpower I have to resist the urge. I make sure to grab breakfast or lunch before I head out on my errands. It’s a lot easier to resist when I am not ravenously hungry from skipping a meal.
10 Healthy Snacks to Battle Holiday Weight Gain
If you do need to be out all day, try to pack healthy snacks you can eat on the run whenever possible. When you feel that temptation to snack, reach into your bag for a healthy snack instead of heading towards the drive through.
- Bring a refillable water bottle with you instead of ordering a soda. If you must have something hot to drink, a black coffee or tea is much healthier than a mocha cappuccino or caramel latte.
- Carrot and celery sticks are very portable. Cut them up and put them in a plastic container so you can grab them easily while you’re on the run.
- Skip the chips and grab a handful of almonds instead. Just be aware of portion size because nuts can be higher in fat content.
- Get your protein and dairy with cheese sticks or slices. You can purchase already sliced cheese sticks or make your own cheese slices. Look for cheese that is free of antibiotics and growth hormones for the most healthy experience.
- Air popped popcorn is a great choice for a snack. You can have 3 cups of air popped popcorn for only 100 calories. Skip the butter please!
- Grapes are the perfect finger food. Remove them from the vine and put a cupful in a plastic container. Enjoy them on the go with no mess.
- Beef jerky is a great alternative to grabbing a burger for lunch. Look for organic and gluten free to avoid the preservatives.
- Trail mix is a great choice for those on the run. Choose trail with nuts, seeds and dried fruits and skip the chocolate or candy pieces.
- Peanut butter crackers are a good combination of protein and carbohydrates and a snack my husband, a diabetic, often enjoys. You can make them at home and bring them along with you. Almond butter is a nice substitution for peanut butter too.
- If you must enjoy an energy bar or granola bar, search for ones that are low in fat and sugar. Skip the chocolate and caramel pieces. Instead search for something made with dates, nuts, and fruit like a Larabar.
What are your go to snacks when you’re on the run?
