By the time mid-afternoon arrives, during the work week, it feels like the perfect time for a quick snack. If you are likely to grab a bag of potato chips or a candy bar, you may want to think about alternative treats. Luckily you don’t need to eat boring snacks during your mid-afternoon lull. You may find it surprising to learn that many healthy foods make excellent snacks for maintaining good health and strong teeth.
Low-Fat Cheese Sticks and Unsalted Pretzels
Some companies now manufacture low-fat cheese sticks boasting fair amounts of protein and calcium. Eat your cheese sticks with a few unsalted pretzels. Look for a bag of mozzarella cheese sticks containing 2.5 milligrams of fat, 200 milligrams of calcium, and 6 to 7 grams of protein per stick. Top off your mid-afternoon snack by eating fresh apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon. Dr. David K Skeels says crunchy apples are great for cleaning teeth and keeping acids in check.
Yogurt is good for Your Digestion
Instead of eating ice cream for your sweet treat, eat six to eight ounces of plain, fat-free yogurt sweetened with applesauce. You will find this snack satisfies your sweet tooth while providing your body with calcium, protein and beneficial probiotics. Containing live and active healthy bacteria, probiotics found in yogurt are excellent for maintaining a healthy digestive system.
Drink Plenty of Water
For a refreshing mid-afternoon beverage, place a few fresh lemon or lime slices in a glass of cold water. If you are used to drinking sugary sodas as part of your mid-afternoon snack, you may discover that switching your habit to refreshing water offers a pleasant alternative and will still keep you as alert as caffeinated sodas.
Enjoy Eating a Bowl of Fresh Berries
There is nothing quite as delicious as a bowl of fresh raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries. Loaded with vitamins and beneficial antioxidants, your taste buds are sure to appreciate the delicious flavors associated with these fresh fruits. If you want to eat a nutritious snack during a mid-afternoon lull, remember to avoid adding white sugar to your berries.
Eat Raw Almonds, Walnuts, and Sunflower Seeds
Raw nuts are nutritious and delicious. Indulge yourself with a handful of raw nuts mixed with organic raisins. Accompany your snack with a cup of warm, unsweetened green tea.
Smart snacking means eating healthy foods, but nutritious snacks can also taste delicious. Use these ideas to spice up your afternoon treats and stay healthy.
