Heart-Healthy Snacks

It is 3:15 p.m. Lunch was hours ago and dinner is still at least three hours away. You are certain that the only thing standing between you and absolute starvation is the snack vending machine. Does this sound familiar? For too many Americans, it has become a habit to run for the vending machines and the seemingly endless variety of chips and cookies and candy to stave off the afternoon munchies. Unfortunately, this is not the best choice for you or your heart.

The typical snack food that people reach for tends to be high in sugar and saturated fats. In addition to be unhealthy, most of these snacks lack fiber, which means that you will be feeling hungry again very soon. There are several heart-healthy snacks that can easily fit into your schedule and your desk drawer for times when you need to snack.

One serving of almonds contains fiber, calcium, and the fats that are good for your heart. As with most things in life, moderation is the key, so actually read the label and measure out one serving. You will probably be surprised at how filling it actually is!

Half of a peanut butter sandwich on wheat bread will definitely get you through the afternoon. The fiber and whole grains make the snack filling and it is good for you too.

Most people do not eat enough fresh fruits and vegetables in their daily diet routine. An easy place to add more fruits and vegetable into your diet is at snack time. Many grocery stores make it easy for you by packaging already-chopped-and-washed veggies that are ready to eat. Add a little peanut butter or low-fat dressing and you have a very heart-healthy snack.

A single stick of string cheese and a couple whole grain crackers are also another way snack healthy. It will provide the calcium and protein you need without the fat that you don't.

One last snack option that many people overlook is ready to eat cereal. One serving of a whole grain cereal such as Cheerios will definitely get you through the afternoon and lower your cholesterol at the same time. See? You can multi-task!

Don't let afternoon snacks ruin your healthy eating habits. Heart-healthy snacks can be as delicious and filling as they are good for you. So, walk past that vending machine and pick up a healthy snack today!