Tips for creating Healthy Snack Habits this Year!
We’re one week into the New Year and you know what feels good?! NOT making any crazy diet resolutions. Because 1) I’m pregnant, and 2) I don’t enjoy setting myself up for failure. Which always happens when I swear off all the sugar, all the carbs, and all the naughty things. Maybe after I have these babies and am done nursing I might have to do something drastic! For now I’m just trying to eat intuitively and fuel my body with real foods, healthy carbs, healthy fats, lean proteins, and lots of fruits and veggies! And really focus on creating healthy snack habits throughout the day, especially when I have a little “me time” or down time while the boys are at school and Graham’s playing quietly. That’s when I really want to bust out the chocolate chips or whip up some cookies!
Snacking is where I usually go south when I’m trying to eat healthy, can anyone relate?
So here are a few tips that really help me create healthy snack habits!
•Have a well stocked pantry and fridge full of your favorite healthy snacks. Be prepared for the week! I’m all about snacks that are ready to grab-n-go. Pre-wash and cut any fresh veggies at the beginning of the week or every few days so you have fresh fruit and veggies on hand. Stock up on items that require zero prep, like these new Del Monte Fruit & Chia Cups. They’re made just for adults you guys! (So hide ’em from your kids or get them their own).
I was a little worried I wouldn’t like the texture of these, but I totally do! They add variety to your snacks, can be eaten on the go, are loaded with real fruit, and each cup has 800 mg of omega-3 fatty acids (the good stuff) and 4-5 g of fiber! Plus, chia seeds are all the rage right now! Having these little cups on hand takes any guess work out of HOW to incorporate chia seeds into your diet too. 
•Pack a healthy snack in your purse or gym bag if you know you’ll be out and about and want to avoid drive-thrus (hello, french fries) or grabbing something not-so-healthy at a convenient store!
•Remember, we don’t have to snack when our kids snack. Sometimes I start snacking because my boys are having a snack, when really I need to listen to MY body and my own hunger cues rather than snacking just to snack. Gosh this one’s hard and takes lots of practice.
•Drink lots of water! This one helps with the previous tip. When I’m well hydrated it’s easier to recognize true hunger cues vs. just being thirsty! I have a 32 oz water bottle I try to keep with me most of the day and drink 3-4 bottles a day. Drink drink drink the H20 friends!
•EAT REAL MEALS. Ever have days where by late afternoon you realize all you’ve done is “snack?” I’m totally guilty. So one healthy habit I really want to establish this year is slowing down to eat a real breakfast, real lunch, and real dinner. And supplement those meals with healthy snacks in between. Goal- don’t be a an all day grazer!
•Lastly, give yourself an occasional treat! I never do well when I try to tell myself something is absolutely off limits. If needed, plan it into your day/week. AND ENJOY IT!
I’d love to hear any of your tips for creating healthy snack habits or what works for you guys!
And be sure to give these Del Monte Fruit & Chia Cups a try! I’m loving having them on hand for a refreshing, healthy snack and a super easy way to get the benefits of chia seeds! Sometimes I’ll pop the in the freezer for to enjoy as a frozen treat!
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