If you are anything like me, or any other mom for that matter- you are probably somewhat sleep deprived, in desperate need of a pedicure, running just a few minutes late for a meeting, squeezing in a quick run or yoga class whenever possible, and somewhere in there trying to get the nutrition you need to keep up your mommy super powers. Since sitting down for an organic chopped salad and iced tea at lunch is probably not an option (if it is, HOORAAY! for you!!), here are some tips on how to satisfy your hunger and stay healthy throughout the day…even if you never sit down at all.
1. Early morning snack- Peanut butter or Almond butter on whole grain toast. Takes a total of 2 minutes hands on time to prep this fine feast, and yet it offers you nearly a quarter of your daily protein (which will also keep hunger from coming back too soon) and about 15% of your daily fiber. “But peanut butter is so high in fat!” you say…well, yes there is a decent amount of fat in peanut butter, but it’s rich in the “good” fat, much like avocados. Cooking light reported that the fat in peanut butter is “mostly the monounsaturated kind, is extremely good for the heart–and for health in general. And the good news didn’t stop there. Researchers continue to uncover disease-fighting chemicals or new health roles for these foods.”. Also, because its so rich in protein, you wont be hungry as quickly as if you ate a bowl of cereal or had some rice cakes, so you total calorie intake will be lower.
2. Mid morning snack- yogurt…I am currently obsessed with Fage greek yogurt. Go for the non fat option and add some honey for a perfect combination of flavor and nutrition. Although Fage is not certified organic, they use all natural ingredients, which means no sweeteners, preservatives or additives. Their milk comes from cows who are raised with out the use of rBGH, and they conduct business in harmony with the environment. Oh, and you will get 15 g of protein without any of the fat. If you add the honey, you will be getting antiseptic, antioxidant and cleansing properties for your body as well as an amazingly sweet flavor! (just don’t share this with your lil one until they have been cleared by a dr…honey is not to be served to children until they are at least 12 months of age)
3. On the run snack- baby carrots. These lil guys are so easy to throw in a small food container and hit the road or the park! They can curb a sweet tooth, and you can even share them with your tiny tot if they have the teeth to take em down. These are a great source of vitamin A- in fact 1 ounce of carrots will give you nearly 80% of your daily value. ** if you aren’t a veggie lover, and a dip would help… try making your own ranch dip with greek yogurt and seasonings.
4. Afternoon snack- Cottage cheese and apples. This is an excellent option if you are looking for a low fat, high protein snack. Not as easy to take with you in the car or to the park, but perfect for when your lil one goes down for a nap. Most low fat cottage cheese brands will only give you 2g of fat with 28g of protein! And the apple will give you more than just a burst of flavor, it offers great vitamin C and fiber as well!
5. Happy hour snack- hummus and crackers. Although I am a HUGE fan of cheese, I am also fully aware that its not the best snack in the world for me. So, I recently turned to hummus for a festive happy hour snack. Made from chickpeas and olive oil (these are the primary ingredients), hummus offers a healthy amount of fiber and protein and is low in fat. You can also make your own hummus, adding your favorite flavors like garlic, red pepper and chives.
For more nutritional information visit nutritiondata.com
