Wholesome Snacking for the Whole Family

MISSION, KS--(Marketwire - Aug 23, 2012) - (Family Features) It's easy to grab a bag of chips or a handful of cookies to give yourself a boost of energy to make it through the day. But those choices aren't always the most nutritious. It is possible, however, to make better snack choices that actually taste good, and are good for you.

Registered dietitian and author Kate Geagan, MS, RD, says, "Snacks can play an important role within a healthy diet. Selecting a tasty, nutritious snack or two can help you stay energized and keep you from overeating at your next meal. If you plan ahead, you can ensure that you have satisfying choices you can feel good about." Geagan suggests planning a mid-afternoon snack and water break. 

"Whole foods and those that are made with minimally processed, whole food ingredients are great snack choices," she says. "Try to include a serving of fruits or vegetables for added vitamins, antioxidants and fiber, as well as a source of protein or calcium, like cheese or yogurt." There are plenty of delicious options to keep you going from morning to night.

Geagan recommends snacking on SOYJOY bars instead of granola bars made with artificial ingredients, preservatives, and additives. SOYJOY bars, made with real fruit and USA grown non-genetically modified ground whole soy, are a tasty snack option perfect for any time of day. They are just the right size to keep in your desk drawer, gym bag, or pack in your child's lunch box. 

Geagan is also a fan of making flavorsome snack pairings. For example, she likes to enjoy a creamy Mini Babybel cheese with multi-grain crackers or apple slices. These individually wrapped cheeses are the perfect portion size, and they combine the irresistible taste of an indulgent treat with the nutrition of a wholesome, everyday snack. For a fun snack for kids, Geagan also suggests making mini skewers with a rolled up turkey slice, Mini Babybel White Cheddar, and a cherry tomato.

Pre-pack nutritious on-the-go snacks. If you plan ahead and divide up single servings into snack-sized resealable bags or storage containers, you'll always have a good-for-you snack ready to grab and go.

• 1 cup edamame (or 1/2 cup shelled edamame)
• 1 ounce in-shell pistachios
• 2 tablespoons almond butter on apple slices
• Whole wheat pita chips with guacamole or hummus
• Create your own trail mix with kid-friendly ingredients like popcorn, fruits and nuts

Great tasting snacks can also be good for you -- offer a variety of nutritious choices and the whole family will find a snack they love. For more snacking tips and recipes visit www.soyjoy.com and www.thelaughingcow.com.

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