We’re officially into fall, and the temperature is dropping. Colder temperatures = staying in, being less active, and eating more. Our appetites naturally increase when it’s cold in an attempt to “survive” by storing fat. This is ok, but it’s important that you reach for healthy low-calorie, high-fibre snacks if you’re feeling extra hungry.
Think about your “go-to” after work snack. Does it consist of salsa & Tostitos and a glass of red wine? If so, you may notice that you’ve gained weight or are having trouble losing. Tostitos are high in calories & fat, and a glass of red wine is about 150 – 175 calories. If you’re having that on a regular basis during the week those extra calories will add up.
Here’s a simple tip to prevent yourself from grabbing unhealthy snacks: don’t keep unhealthy snacks & extra alcohol in the house.
Instead, buy easy, healthy snacks & drinks and make them accessible (keep them in the front of the fridge or pantry):
- Snap peas
- Baby carrots
- Hummus
- Frozen organic edamame
- Berries
- Apples & Almond Butter
- Trail mix
- Whole grain crackers with natural nut butter
- Make & freeze healthy muffins on weekends for a quick healthy grab
- Healthy microwave popcorn
- Grapefruit Perrier & 100% Cranberry Juice
- Natural Flavored Water (try mint & raspberry, lemon or cucumber)
It’s important to treat yourself to your favorites, but in moderation. If you love salsa & chips than have it, but make sure the chips are healthy choices, and choose one night a week to enjoy them. For example, I love Way Better Snacks chips and Skinny Sticks, but I still consider them a treat, and have them on a Friday or Saturday night only.
When it comes to alcohol it’s easy to get into the habit of a nightly glass of wine after work. Limit your alcohol intake to weekends and special occasions. Choose non-alcoholic options instead, and only buy wine & beer as you need it; don’t keep a large stock in the house or you’ll be more tempted to have it. Alcohol is high in calories & sugar, and it’s a toxin, which clogs up your liver & affects your quality of sleep.
It’s all about getting rid of old, unhealthy snacking & drinking habits and developing new, healthy ones.
Stock up on healthy snacks & drinks instead of junk food & alcohol. If it’s not there you won’t be as tempted to have it. This new way of snacking is better for your health and your waist line.
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