Heart healthy snacks for women on the go
You know that eating well nourishes your body and lowers your chances of developing heart disease. But when life gets busy, it’s hard enough to find a minute to catch your breath, let alone sit down and enjoy a nutritious meal. In celebration of Heart Month, honour your health and your heart. Put “Eat energizing snacks” at the top of your “To Do” list. Here are five simple heart healthy ideas to get
you started.
Produce power: Virtually all fruits and vegetables get two thumbs up as heart healthy snacks. With fibre, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and little fat, they’re great anytime, anywhere. Try baby carrots or green beans dipped in flavourful hummus or a zesty low-fat salad dressing. Add thinly sliced apples to grilled cheese sandwiches. Combine fresh pears with a serving of low-fat vanilla yoghurt.
Make and take: In a re-sealable container, mix together ¼ cup of slivered almonds with a handful each of low-sodium pretzels, whole grain breakfast cereal and dried cranberries. Enjoy it as a quick pick-me-up after a long meeting at the office, or as an après skating snack with the kids.
Pantry portable: Set up a mini pantry at your desk, complete with whole grain crackers, peanut butter, low-fat granola bars, trail mix, canned fruit cups and sunflower seeds. Now, heart healthy snacks are only a reach away.
Protein on the go: A little bit of protein goes a long way in helping you stay alert and energized. Try lower-fat cheese slices with a handful of grapes, a slice of deli turkey rolled up in a small whole wheat tortilla or a handful of edamame beans or roasted soy nuts with a glass of orange juice.
Cold quenchers: Beat dehydration by drinking water, low-fat milk, 100% juices, fruit smoothies and non-caffeinated drinks. Pair your favourite quencher with any of the snack ideas listed above.