How to Snack Smarter+Recipes

I just got back from 10 days away plus an additional 4 days watching my daughter play volleyball at a National Tournament.  It’s been so wonderful to fully step away for two weeks, be fully present for both myself and my family while getting to step out of the “cocoon” we have been living in for over a year (I know you are with me on this one!)

Through all of my recent travels and a sports tournament, “smart” snacking has been TOP of mind!!!  As we head on vacation this summer, kids are playing sports, we are on the go just in everyday life, it’s so important to BE PREPARED!!  When you are prepared with healthy food options, you make better decisions (you know what I mean…….hello drive-through’s)

Now, before I get to my healthy snacking list, I want to share that I am actually not a big fan of snacking in between meals. I try to maintain a 4-5 hour window between my meals to balance out my insulin levels. Insulin lasts for 6-8 hours in the blood shutting down fat burning, increasing fat storage and making you feel “hangry” (you know what I mean),  so I try not to snack on “airy” carbs like popcorn or chips that will simply shut down my fat burning and make me 10 times as hungry in as early as 90 minutes! If you need a snack in between meals, it can be a sign that you aren’t getting the macronutrients you need during meal time……if you are even eating a meal!  However, sometimes life happens!  We are on the go, on a plane, working and not taking a break, kids are looking for snack options, we get stuck somewhere….the list goes on and we need to know how to SNACK SMART until our Fundamental5 next meal.

1-) (1/4 cup) of homemade nut mix (add a few Brazil nuts for thyroid supporting micronutrients)

On a baking tray, mix all your favorite raw nuts spritz with just a bit of water and shake on your favorite seasonings and a pinch of Himaylan sea salt – dry roast in the oven at 350 degrees for 10 min, checking and flipping 1/2 way through.

2-) Raspberries or Blueberries and unsweetened nut butter – Frozen berries are my favorite with 2 tablespoons of nut butter (almond is amazing!)

3-) Deviled Eggs (try Greek yogurt or avocado in place of mayo) – You can also eat hard boiled eggs if you prefer!

4-) 1/2 avocado with Ella’s Flats Crackers  – Add a splash of Olive Oil, Sea Salt, Cumin and a twist of lime for all the “Extra” goodness.

5-) Cucumber slices or veggies: You can eat them with a homemade vinaigrette or my Avocado Hummus

6-) 3 tbsp Coconut Yogurt and 1 tbsp of almond butter – Have you ever tried this? This is so addictive!  It tastes like a coconut cream pie! Want to level it up even more??? Go with “crunchy” nut butter….the more you chew the better satiated you will feel!