Monday, 05 December 2011 12:10

Previously we went over the different protein powder options, and why it is beneficial to add protein shakes and smoothies to our diet. We know protein helps us feel full and satiated, and that adding lean protein to our diet helps to build muscle mass and strengthen our bodies. Anyone watching their weight or who exercises regularly knows that it is crucial to give their body the right fuel. In addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner, choosing the right snacks is very important.

We are often asked at the store for healthy snack options and recommendations. Having healthy and filling snacks available to us at all times is very important when sticking to a healthy diet. Snacks help to get through the tough part of the afternoon; that time between lunch and dinner when we often feel we are crashing and need a fix to get us through the rest of the day. Having healthy snacks on hand are also great because without quick and easy food available we might feel tempted to grab a muffin or donut to satisfy that urge. We know that choosing such refined, carbohydrate and sugar laden "foods" are only going to lead to a spike in blood sugar and do more harm than good realistically.

So what are the better options? In addition to whole foods like nuts and seeds, veggies and fruits, lean animal protein and eggs, another great option are protein bars. Not the sugar rich granola and "snack" bars lining the shelves at the grocery store, but good quality bars made from plant protein or whey protein, which have good amounts of protein, fiber, heart-healthy essential fatty acids, and maybe even added minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and enzymes.

Did you know you can get all that from a bar? When people think protein bars, they often think high-calorie, body-builder appropriate, chalky, cardboard tasting bars, loaded with chocolate or some type of artificial coating. However, this is NOT at all accurate! There are some fantastic bars out there at health stores, perfect for everyone, even kids! Choose a bar with 10-15 grams of protein, and at least 3-5 grams of fiber. Don't be afraid of the taste, there are many bars that taste fantastic. When they are using good natural, whole-food ingredients, you don't need to do too much to get a great tasting product. The bars might be sweet, but if you look carefully at your ingredients, they are natural sweeteners, coming from dried fruits like dates, raisins, berries, etc. Happy snacking!