How to Prevent Snaccidents

The best way to prevent binge eating on junk food is to not even have it in the house! However, sometimes we need ideas to help us replace those empty calories with better choices. The basics for smart snacking involve choosing healthy snacks, planning ahead, and eating mindfully. 

Choose healthy snacks   

• Fruits and vegetables: Apples are high in fiber, and carrots and celery sticks are healthy snacks  

• Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds are nutritious and crunchy 

• Hard-boiled eggs: A quick, protein-rich snack  

• Whole grains: Low-fat crackers, air-popped popcorn, and whole-grain snack bars are good sources of fiber and energy  

Plan ahead 

• Include healthy snacks in your meal plan 

• Clean and cut fruits and veggies right when you get home from the grocery store

• Prepare snacks in advance, like energy bites, trail mix, or hummus 

• Carry a small bag of healthy snacks with you when you know you may need them - for instance picking up kiddos from school or doing errands during lunch hour.

 Eat mindfully 

• Stop what you're doing and eat your snack like a small meal - Enjoy it!

• Don't eat your snack while doing something else, like watching TV or working 

 Other tips 

• Include protein at each meal - it helps you stay satisfied longer

• Limit the number of snacks you eat between meals 

• Be mindful when choosing snacks at convenience stores 

• Look for packaged snacks that meet recommendations for portion size, fat, and sugar 

• Don't eat snacks straight from a large container

• Sometime you are actually thirsty rather than hungry so begin with a glass of water

• Often your body is asking for some variety and perhaps a walk or exercise break will serve you better

  
  

  

  Apples are a great snack choice