Sweet Snacks

Something that I have noticed in reviewing the food logs of many Mamas is that in an attempt to keep the calorie intake low, but still treat themselves to something sweet they will eat 1 or 2 cookies or a mini candy or something like that.  And sure, maybe it keeps you within your calorie intake range, but it's empty calories that most likely doesn't fuel your body.  Not to mention if you are hungry, it doesn't usually satisfy hunger and it also requires plenty of willpower to limit yourself to just one or two.  It's a very slippery slope when it comes to empty calorie, processed foods.  Yes, you should do your food logs and count the calorie intake to keep yourself accountable and stay within the suggested calorie intake.  So maybe those 2 cookies are just 80 calories, or a bag of those processed 100 calorie snacks makes you feel like you had a treat but didn't eat many calories.  But instead, feed your body a snack or a "treat" that sometimes could be a littler higher in calories, but they are high quality calories.  So this week I want to share with you a couple of options for something that you could have as a sweet treat, but would also provide more nutrition than a cookie or tiny piece of candy.

1.  Fruit, fruit, fruit.  The better snacking option is natural, clean eating and wholesome fruit.  It's winter and we live in an area abundant with yummy and sweet mandarin oranges (40 calories in 1).  Or lovely crisp apples (95 cal in a medium size).   If you want, make this great dip for apples and bananas.  Mix a small container of vanilla non-fat Greek yogurt with 2 tablespoons of peanut butter, a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon.  It holds up well in the refrigerator for several days; make some and pack it in small containers with your grab-and-go bags of fruit, for a snack that is sweet, healthy and a great combo of fiber and protein.  Fills you up and fuels your body!

2.  Make your own healthier cookie.  There are some good recipes out there.  I have one of my own, it's actually a no-bake cookie dough ball.  It's a good for the late afternoon if you feel a dip in your energy level, or also if you need a little sweet treat after dinner.  Check out my No Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Balls.  Taste tested and approved by our Mama Bootcamp Coaches.  Another snack that I love is from fellow Mama, Allison and it's over on her blog, Get Natured.  Lemon Coconut Energy Balls.  Not only can they be a healthy snack, but a great recovery food.  Pack one or two in a container and eat them on your way home after bootcamp.

For more recipes or suggestions you can email me at erika@e-mealplanning.com.