Spring has arrived, which means many people will be making a bigger effort to lose weight or get into shape for those “skimpier” wardrobe selections such as shorts, tank tops, bathing suits, etc. Whether you have had weight loss surgery, lost a few pounds on your own (or are working at it as you read this), or are in good shape and want to stay that way, we have a few healthy snack ideas for spring that are tasty, satisfying, and will help stave off a more “dangerous” snack attack that could pack on the pounds.
In spring, there are certain fruits and vegetables that are “in season” and easier to find at the supermarket. Unfortunately, many people think of grabbing a snack as grabbing a candy bar or package of chips. These choices are unhealthy, and not only lead to obesity, but health issues over the long term. If you’re in search of healthy snack ideas for spring, we have a few you and your family are sure to enjoy.
Craving a savory snack? A sweet and spicy homemade trail mix may satisfy your snack attack, and is healthy as long as you mix the right ingredients. Think sunflower seeds, dried fruit, cashews, almonds, and dark chocolate chips; add wasabi peas, mix in a bowl, and you’re ready to take along to work or on errands in a plastic sandwich or storage bag.
For that sweet tooth, an orange banana smoothie is just the thing to satisfy your sweet craving without adding tons of calories. Simply combine the juice of four oranges, one cup of strawberries sliced in half, a ripe banana, and one tablespoon of lime juice and refrigerate to chill. Satisfying, delicious, and healthy!
Need a snack that gives you an extra energy boost? Fig and walnut bars are just the snack you need to keep you going through a busy day. You can find recipes online that are easy and quick to prepare, providing you with healthy snacks for a week or longer. Most recipes contain oats, bran cereal, walnuts, dried figs, cinnamon, ginger, honey, and other super-healthy ingredients that come together in a bar that’s satisfying and tasty.
Many fruits are available in spring that you won’t find during fall or winter months, such as melons, apricots, cherries, citrus fruits, and strawberries. Strawberries dipped in low-fat whipped topping or watermelon are great spring choices. Eating healthy snacks during the spring season is easy, as long as you stick to fruit, healthy nuts, low-fat granola bars, fresh fruit smoothies, and other choices that are low calorie and low fat.
Spring is when everything seems fresh and new; you want to maintain your healthy, slim body or work on your weight issues if a bit on the heavy side. With these healthy snack ideas for spring, you can indulge your taste buds while avoiding the guilt (not to mention extra pounds) that result from unhealthy snacks.
Posted in Bariatric Nutrition