5 Healthy Snacks Perfect For Springtime

by Aaron D

Now that the warmer weather has arrived, many people are regretting those heavy winter meals they ate over the holidays . If you're interested in shedding winter pounds and getting healthy, it's time to change your eating pattern for these warmer months. In the colder months, people tend to increase high-calorie snacking between meals.

Now that Spring season has arrived, make the switch to light snack fare. As you increase the amount of time you're spending outdoors, stock up on portable snacks that can be easily transported. Here are five snacks to keep on hand this spring:

Almonds. These nuts packed with protein, niacin, Vitamin E and fiber; all nutrients the human body desperately needs. A single serving, about a handful, can satiate your hunger between meals. Just be careful with your serving size, it's easy to overindulge in their nutty goodness.
Bananas. Fruit is always a good option when looking for a snack. Bananas are perfect for springtime outdoor activities since they come with their own peelable container. Bananas are full of a type of fiber called Potassium. They also help the body to stay hydrated. This is perfect if you are doing sweaty chores outside.
Greek Yogurt. This kind of yogurt has a much thicker consistency than other types of yogurt you buy. It also tends to contain less sugar and lactose which helps you absorb it's probiotic goodness. The unflavored variety will also be packed with more protein and fewer carbohydrates, helping your bones and muscles, as well as making you feel full longer.
Multigrain Chips. These are full of good stuff; such as flax, sunflower and sesame seeds. Food Should Taste Good puts out one popular brand of these healthy chips but other companies make different versions as well. This is a great snack for kids who are used to snacks like chips and crackers.
Healthy Snack Bars. Look for healthy alternatives to traditional sugar laden granola bars. Check the ingredients to make sure they are whole and all-natural, like nuts, honey, dried fruit, or even a bit of dark chocolate (which much more beneficial for your body than milk chocolate). Skip those that use artificial sweeteners.

Remember to drink plenty of water as well; especially if you are working in your yard. Whatever you decide to snack on be aware of your portion size. It's easy to turn a snack into a meal. A good snack will provide you with just enough energy to get you to the next meal. So what are you waiting for; grab one of these healthy snacks today!

This article is sponsored by ShopRite of Yardley in Oxford Oaks Shopping Center, the state-of-the-art grocery store that is here to fulfill all of your holiday shopping needs. Three hundred well prepared associates are ready to serve you as you shop aisles filled with the freshest varieties of produce, meat and seafood. In addition to offering the convenience of online shopping options, the 57,000-square-foot ShopRite of Yardley was designed with convenience in mind, even offering on-site childcare for children ages 3 to 8 for up to 90 minutes!

Have More Questions About Healthy Springtime Eating?

The ShopRite of Yardley offers free nutrition services year-round courtesy of their in-store registered dietitian. Customers can make an appointment for a complimentary nutrition consultation by stopping by the office of Alex Buccino, RD, LDN, the Retail Dietitian of ShopRite of Yardley or by phone at (215) 595-0078 ext. 3001, or email at Alex.Buccino@Wakefern.com. ShopRite also offers culinary workshop cooking classes which feature delicious, in season, healthy recipes that customers can sample and recreate at home.