A new year often means that a large majority of the population has set goals for themselves, goals they want to attain before the end of the year. Many of these goals center on personal growth, health, prosperity and the like. This is often why gym membership rates sky rocket and why they are almost overcrowded in January. Now, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to be healthy, and wanting to shed that unwanted weight, but doing so does take more than hitting the elliptical once a week and then stopping altogether come April. So, just what does it take to get into shape, and what should you be pairing with your workouts in order to truly get after the things you’ve told yourself you’re going to conquer this year?
Well, one thing that most gym goers simply fail to realize is that diet is as much a part of losing weight as sweating it out in the gym. When the word snack is tossed around, all too many people think of foods that are unhealthy like chips, candy and fatty processed junk. Flipping all you know about snacking on its head and taking a new healthier approach can really help you see results in your weight loss and healthy living journey. The next time you’re feeling hungry in between large meals, take these snack tips into account.
Peanut Butter
It’s not just the main staple in your kids’ favorite sandwich; it also packs quite the punch in the protein department. Even a small spoonful added to healthy whole wheat crackers can keep you full and boost your energy until it’s time to eat your next big meal.
Nuts
Just like peanut butter, nuts are great at leaving you full, and they do so through the consumption of small quantities. Cashews, almonds and walnuts are a great healthy alternative to quick snack such as chips. Rich in heart healthy fats, unsalted nuts are also high in calcium, vitamin E, potassium and magnesium, all of which contribute to a significant health boost whenever consumes.
Popcorn
Yes, you read that correctly, popcorn. Because this is such a beloved snack and an easy on-the-go way to keep you full, there are now a multitude of healthy varieties of popcorn. Thanks to the recent health kick that has swept the nation over the last decade or so, more foods have been revamped, taking harmful chemicals and processed, unhealthy ingredients out of them. Popcorn can now be consumed in low-calorie form, without butter or sugar, and because of that it’s actually quite healthy to consume. So grab a handful while on the move, and this can actually be a good staple in your healthy diet.
Fruit
It seems silly that this is even on the list, but most people often do not turn to fruit when they’re feeling hungry in between larger meals. Not only do they do a great job of filling you up, they’re also extremely healthy for you. Get into the habit of having a banana or an apple or orange when your tummy starts to rumble, instead of chips, soda or a candy bar. Get creative, make a fruit salad, add peanut butter if you’d like.
