Posted by: Eye Health Northwest in General Eye Health on March 14, 2012
Did you know diet and exercise are important to maintaining your eye health? Maintaining a normal body weight can help decrease your risk for developing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and many other chronic conditions that affect your eyes.
So what are you to do at 3pm, when hunger hits you and the vending machine is calling your name?
The following are easy snack ideas to satisfy your afternoon cravings in a healthy way.
Carrots
Eating carrot don’t directly improve your eyesight, but did you know they’re great for the skin and helping the body fight infection? Carrots come in all shapes and snackable sizes. Try them with some ranch dressing, but not too much or you’ll add too many calories to this 35-calories per 1/2 cup snack.
Grapes
Grapes flavonoid-rich interiors help protect cells from oxygen damage. They’re also filled with antioxidants that fight heart disease and the development of cancer cells. 1 1/2 cups, grapes only contain 85 calories and no fat.
Almonds
Unsalted almonds are high in the right kind of fat: monounsaturated that helps reduce cholesterol levels. They’re also loaded with protein, fiber, and folic acid. Try sprinkling them on a favorite salad or in low-fat yogurt. Approximately 30 nuts come to just over 160 calories and 14 fat grams.
Popcorn
Select the 94% fat-free popcorn packets for a salty snack. Since it’s a whole- grain food, popcorn is a high-quality carbohydrate source offering fiber and a minimal 110 calories and 2 fat grams per six popped cups.
Other healthier options..
Pretzels:
Serving Size: 17 Pretzels
Calories: 110
Total Fat:1g
Graham Crackers:
Serving Size:8 small crackers
Calories:130
Total Fat:3.5g
Dark Chocolate:
Serving Size:1.7 oz
Calories: 90
Total Fat:5g
Not so healthy options…
Nacho Cheese Chips:
Serving Size:12 Chips
Calories: 140
Total Fat:7g
Chocolate Chip Cookies:
Serving Size:1 Cookie
Calories: 140
Total Fat: 7g
Milk Chocolate Candy Pieces
Serving Size:One bag
Calories: 240
Total Fat:10g
Sources: VSPwellness program ,WebMD, Snacking Habits for Healthy Living, caloriecount.com, American Dietetic Association, Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention, and NutritionData.com.
