Healthiest Snacks!

I stumbled upon this article on the 29 Healthiest Foods on the Planet. The following foods will give you the "biggest bang" for your buck, and help you fight those deadly diseases that you all hear about--- diabetes, hypertension, cancer... the list goes on and on. Here are my favorites foods you can use as snacks for an afternoon pick-me-up in class or in the workplace.

1. Apricots: These bad boys are packed with beta carotene, an important antioxidant which can help eyesight and prevent cancer, especially skin cancer. They are low calorie and have fiber too! The fiber will help keep you full, and the low calorie content will let you eat more than just one! Dried or fresh work!

2. Raisins: Raisins are packed with iron which is important for women. They have fiber which will help keep you full, and are tasty plain or thrown in that mid afternoon cup of oatmeal. Try adding them to a trail mix too.

3. Broccoli: These little green trees (Glee reference... anyone?) are packed with tons of nutrients-- indole-3-carbinol and sulforaphane,vitamin C, and beta carotene. What this means is that the help protect against breast cancer, help the immune system, and helps improve eyesight. They are low calorie and contain fiber- 1 cup has 25 calories and 3 grams of fiber. Try dipping them in a low fat dip, such as hummus, as a filling afternoon snack.

4. Peanuts: These tasty little things contain mostly unsaturated fat, which can lower your risk for heart disease. Try them plain as a snack, in trail mix, or as a spread on a whole grain cracker.

5. Yogurt: I'm sure most of you have heard about all of the great things yogurt brings to the table. The bacteria in yogurt helps prevent yeast infections and the calcium helps strengthen bones. It is packed with protein too! Try the Greek yogurt if you haven't yet- the real stuff has tons of protein and no fat. Try adding chopped fruit or nuts to the oatmeal for a very satisfying snack.

Happy snacking out there!