Most of us are too tired when we get home from work to cook a healthy dinner and we end up ordering a takeout from the nearest fast food chain. But fast food has its negative effects. According to research, those who eat fast food tend to consume more total fat, carbohydrates and sugar-sweetened beverages, and they eat less fiber, milk, fruits, and non-starchy vegetables. We all know when hunger hits, it is convenience that always wins over health. So make it easy and be prepared. Stock up on these more nutritious alternatives foods that will help in your proper diet.
Hummus and Veggies
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It is popular throughout the Middle East and in Middle Eastern Cuisine around the globe. The Middle Eastern chickpea spread is an easy, protein-rich snack that fights hunger and balances blood sugar levels. Substituting baked pita chips with some veggies can make a big impact towards a healthier snack. Hummus boosts energy because it is high in iron and vitamin C and also has significant amounts of folate and vitamin B6. This is a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It is useful in vegetarian and vegan diets and it serves as a complete protein.
Hummus makes for a great snack or appetizer and you can prepare this in just 10 minutes by following this simple recipe for plain hummus: Drain chickpeas and set aside liquid from can. Combine remaining ingredients in blender or food processor. Add 1/4 cup of liquid from chickpeas. Blend for 3-5 minutes on low until thoroughly mixed and smooth. Make a shallow well in the middle of the paste when serving and pour a small amount (1-2 tablespoons) of olive oil in the well. Keep a few batches in the freezer so all you have to do is thaw.
Salsa
Using fresh tomato salsa as a dip is a healthy snack and a great serving idea. It can also spice up other dishes in your diet. Salsa contains vitamin A, C and Capsaicin that aids in producing collagen, maintaining a strong immune system and plays a central role in fetal development. It also takes part in the treatment of some health conditions.
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Eggs
The topic of cholesterol has become very confusing nowadays. People actually hurt their health by trying to avoid cholesterol but our body actually needs to achieve a balance when it comes to cholesterol consumption. People gravitated towards egg whites where there has been a misconception that its best to eat only the whites, which in truth, the yolk is where many of the vitamins and nutrients are found. Eggs are a great source of protein and have numerous vitamins. Proteins like those found in eggs yolks stimulate the release the hormone glucagon that aids in fat burning and actually fights off belly fat.
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Raw Almonds
Almonds are not only delicious but they are also nutritionally beneficial. They are high in monounsaturated fats that reduce LDL cholesterol and also lower the risk of heart disease. They are not only reducing cholesterol, they also help to stabilize blood sugar and they are high in vitamin E. Almonds are healthiest when eaten raw because over twenty flavonoids are primarily concentrated in the skin. And also they help with weight loss. Even though almonds are relatively high in calories, their protein, fiber, and monounsaturated fat content makes them quite filling and satisfying. It does not cause weight gain and may actually promote weight loss.
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Almond Butter
Almond butter contains several nutrients. You can enjoy it as an alternative to peanut butter and it’s a way to take advantage of its nutrients which are packed with vitamins and minerals that help promote good health and prevent certain diseases. It is good for the heart, lowers your blood pressure, controls blood sugar, they are rich in antioxidants and also helps with weight control. Add almond butter to a smoothie or serve with celery sticks to make it part of your diet.
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Parmesan Cheese
It might sound too good to be true, but having a brick of Parmesan cheese around can be an asset to shedding pounds. It aids in building stronger bones because of its high calcium content. Because parmesan cheese is lactose-free, lactose-intolerant people benefit from a calcium-rich food that is safe to eat. Parmesan is one of the most flavorful cheeses so you only need about a tablespoon (22 calories) for a satisfying snack.
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Yogurt
A top belly-flattening favorite. Yogurt is stacked with probiotics, a bacteria that may help reduce the amount of fat your body absorbs. Pick a Greek yogurt over the regular kind, says Kara Lydon, a registered dietitian at Chobani. Greek nonfat or low-fat versions contain only half as much sodium as regular yogurt -- and no artificial sweeteners or preservatives.
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