Snacks can provide a much-needed energy boost between meals. When life gets busy, it’s easy to reach for something easy to take on the go, like chips or cookies. However, you can maximize your snack break by choosing fruits, veggies, whole grains, dairy, or protein. These groups can give you the energy you need to finish the day and keep hunger at bay longer. Check out the tips below for ideas on how to start smart snacking! 
- Keep healthy snacks on hand: Having options like fruit, veggies, yogurt, nuts, or cheese sticks can make it easier to reach for them when you’re hungry. Try to fix these snacks up at the beginning of the week or when you have time. Take the time to wash and cut fruit and veggies or pre-portion yogurt or nuts; that way, they will be ready to grab when you need them!
- Practice mindful eating: Eat your snack at a table or in a distraction-free area, such as a kitchen counter. These distractions can lead to overeating even when you aren’t hungry. Avoid eating a snack out of boredom, as this can also lead to mindless eating.
- Check out the nutrition labels on pre-packaged snacks: Pre-packaged snacks can be very convenient when you are busy. Take some time to look for snacks with low added sugars and high levels of protein or fiber. These types of snacks will curb your hunger for longer and give you more energy in the long run than something with lots of added sugar. Ensure you also check the serving size, as some prepackaged snacks contain a serving size of 2 or 3 instead of 1.
- Make sweets the exception rather than the rule: Having a sweet treat or a bag of chips is fine as long as it isn’t the snack you reach for every day.
- Keep snacks entertaining: Try different combinations of foods and mix up your daily snacks so you don’t get bored. You could also take this time to try a food you’ve never had before!
Want to try out some smart snack ideas but don’t know where to start? Check out KidsHealth for ideas!
