Satisfying Healthy Snacks

Surprisingly, since we've begun to eat more nutrient rich foods that contain good amounts of protein and fiber, I rarely get hungry between meals anymore. It's amazing to me how little I eat now and still feel satisfied. Sometimes I have to stop myself from eating something just because I think I'm supposed to, not because I feel hungry.

In my quest to eat healthier foods that are not processed, I've come up with some healthy snacks that are easy to throw together, taste great, don't cost a lot, and stick with you until your next meal. Many of these snacks are also perfect for breakfast on the run or combine a couple for a light and satisfying lunch.

- 6oz. of organic vanilla low-fat yogurt with frozen berries of choice (unsweetened). Add a 1/4 cup of Kashi GOLEAN Crunch! Cereal, Honey Almond Flax for an even more filling snack.

- Make 1/2 a serving of a smoothie or drink a full serving for more of a meal. I've got a great recipe for an organic smoothie here.

- Make a trail mix containing Raw Sunflower Seeds, Raw Pumpkin Seeds, Raw Walnuts or Raw Almonds, Organic Dried Apricots and Organic Raisins.

- Air popped Popcorn or oil popped using a little Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Season with sea salt and dried herbs of choice. Drizzle a little organic butter for added flavor and to help the seasonings stick better. For a sweeter treat, pop corn in Organic Coconut Oil and sprinkle with a little cinnamon and sugar.

- Small bowl of Organic Scottish Oatmeal sweetened with Organic Raw Honey or Organic Raw Blue Agave Nectar.

- One organic free-range boiled egg.

- Raw Almond Butter on apple slices. Raw Cashew Butter is good also, but it is a little higher in fat, but still a healthy choice in moderation.

- Add a serving of low-fat cheese to any snack for more staying power.

- Hummus with homemade baked pita chips.

- Fresh salsa and/or guacamole with baked tortilla chips or try these Organic Corn Thins.

One thing I can't stress enough is just because something is organic or good for you, you still must pay attention to portion control and not eat too much of one thing at one time. Take into account the total calories you have already had that day and what you will be eating later before committing to a snack.

If you feel hungry, but really shouldn't be because you just ate, you may be confusing dehydration with hunger or digestion with hunger. Try drinking a full glass of water before eating or do a little physical exercise. 20-30 jumping jacks or busying yourself with a craft project may be all you need to get your mind off food. We tend to eat when bored, so stomp out that bad habit now.