Healthy snacking

At it's core, snacking refers to all the food you eat during the day other than your main meals of breakfast, lunch or dinner. They are typically smaller portions of food that are spread out across the day.
 
Snacking is fine, as long as it’s in moderation and your choosing good quality foods. That includes fruit, vegetables, nuts and other options. Aim for snacks that include protein, fiber, and healthy fats, which help keep you full throughout the day and make healthy choices at your next meal.
 
By planning ahead and focusing on nutrient-rich foods, snacks may support your weight management goals by managing hunger and keeping you satisfied between meals. Here's 5 nutritious snacks that you can try out.
 
1. Nuts
Nuts are an ideal nutritious snack, providing the perfect balance of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. There are plenty of nuts you can choose from, including walnuts, almonds, brazil nuts, hazelnuts, pine nuts, cashews, and pistachios.
 
2. Smoothies
Smoothies are an ideal way to get your fruit, vegetables or protein in. Get creative with the ingredients you choose, making sure to choose fresh ingredients full of colour and life.
 
3. Apple/Banana slices with peanut butter
Apples and peanut butter are a match made in heaven — both nutritionally and flavour wise. On the one hand, apples are full of fibre. On the other hand, peanuts provide healthy fats, plant-based protein, and fiber which are pretty much all of the filling nutrients you should look for in a snack.
 
4. Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and is a great option if your looking for a sweet snack. Try putting a square in your porridge or enjoying it alongside a handful of nuts. Moderation of amount/ size is the key with this one!
 
5. Popcorn 
We are talking about the air-popped popcorn and not the type you buy in the cinema which is slathered in butter and salt.
Popcorn delivers filling fiber and less than 100 calories in a generous 3-cup serving. Add flavor with a little bit of olive oil or vinegar.