Even if you are trying to lose weight, snacking is still important. Snacks are an essential part of your dieting process as long as you make the right choices. Very often when trying to lose weight, we fail to recognize the importance of having snacks in between meals. You should remember that you can still have snacks without derailing your diet as long as they are the right kind.
If you are trying to lose weight using meal replacement protein shakes you are better off having a snack that contains at least 10 grams of protein but without the fat and calories.
The protein in your shake along with the protein in your snack will keep you from getting hungry between meals when you’re most susceptible to eating foods that will undermine your weight loss efforts.
By not having a snack you will find yourself thinking about food and this will only lead to frustration and make you eat more later. If you can’t find a snack with at least 10 grams of protein, here are a few suggestions that will suppress the hunger pangs and keep your diet on track.
1. Apples
Apples are a better choice than bananas. You can eat two to three apples a day without worrying about getting fat. Apples are naturally low in calories and each apple has about 5 grams of fiber. This is the reason why you feel full longer if you eat an apple for a snack. Be aware that fiber plays a role in dieting and losing weight.
Apples give you the satisfaction of having a snack without feeling guilty. They will not ruin your diet even if you have as many as three apples per day. Remember that apples have other health benefits aside from their fiber content and pleasant taste including natural anti-oxidants that help build a strong immune system.
2. String Cheese
You can have one to two pieces of string cheese per day. Even if it is not classified as a perfect snack, it can be considered an acceptable choice due to its protein content. Protein is dominant in string cheese, which will enhance your protein intake from your shake. String cheese can a filling and satisfying choice.
3. Low Calorie Yogurts
Low calorie means 80 calories or less per container. Yogurts have more carbohydrates than protein especially if they contain fruit, however, some can contain up to 9 grams of protein in an 8-ounce serving. Low calorie yogurts can fill you up as well and you will feel more satisfied since there are quite a variety of flavor selections. Have at least 1 or 2 servings and you will feel happier knowing that you are not depriving yourself of the joy of eating. The best part is that you are making a healthy food choice and you are not sabotaging your diet. There are lots of affordable low calorie yogurts that you can choose from in the supermarkets.
Remember that snacking is good and does no harm to your diet as long as you make the right choices.
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