Let’s face it, snacking throughout the day can be just as important for your health as eating the proper meals. According to a Redbook magazine article, dietitian Rachel Beller said that grazing during the day has a big impact. If you get too hungry between meals, that can deplete your will power and make you consume more calories overall. The trick, Beller said, is to choose nutrient-rich foods and filling combos of protein and fiber. Here are some healthy snacks for seniors and adults, according to Reader’s Digest:
Healthy Potato Chip Swaps. Rich in Vitamin A, it’s a kid favorite, but you can also enjoy the recipe: Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit Cut four sweet potatoes into 1-inch-wide wedges, place fresh-side down on a roasting pan, then brush with a mixture of 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder and 1 teaspoon kosher salt Cook, turning once, for 20-25 minutes. Remove pan from oven and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt- Spicy Popcorn. A light, fun snack, add garlic, Parmesan and sugar or salt to this all-occasions hit. It’s a solid source of fiber and antioxidants.
- Do-It-Yourself Kettle Corn. This one can eliminate some of the artificial chemicals from processed versions: Toss 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1 teaspoon of Stevia with 2 cups of freshly popped popcorn. Then, shake them in a paper bag for even distribution. The Stevia can be switched with 1 teaspoon of honey plus 1 teaspoon of water, microwaved for 20 seconds to thin it out.
- Healthy Nachos. This tantalizing dish includes only three to four multi-grain chips, a few pinches of cheddar, a zap in the microwave and a dollop of guacamole or sprinkle of scallions.
- Brown Rice Bonanza. A big batch of brown rice is oh, so good. Heat up a small bowl and top it with salsa, hummus or Trader Joe’s ‘Cowboy Caviar,’ a mix of black beans, peppers and roasted corn.
- Low-carb Turkey Wrap. A turkey wrap only has 75 calories, so go to town! Spread 2 teaspoons of honey mustard on three thin slices of turkey, top with 1/4 cup sliced apple and wrap in lettuce.
- Healthy apples. They’re called cinnamon-spiced baked apples: Core a crisp apple and put the wedges in a microwave-safe bowl. Sprinkle with a teaspoon of brown sugar and a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg, then toss to cover. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate and cook for three to four minutes on high. The apple is less than 90 calories and provides 3 grams of filling fiber; adding raisins provides more iron, Vitamin C and fiber.
