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If you are a big snacker but want to lose or maintain a healthy weight, you do not have to give up your snacks. In fact, snacking can actually help you lose weight. The key is to snack on foods that are nutritious and high in fibre and water content.

Many people associate snacking with junk food such as cookies, crackers, chips and chocolate bars. These foods do pack a lot of calories and have very little to no nutritional value. When you replace these foods with nutritious foods you can actually keep your blood sugar level stable throughout the day which will give you more energy and will not leave you feeling deprived until you get to eat again. Snacking regularly throughout the day can help you eat less during your main meals and will not make you feel as if you are on a diet, even if you are watching what you eat. The first thing you should look for in a snack is that it is nutritious and wholesome. Your snacks should be high in fibre so that it fills you up without bulking you up. Most foods that contain fibre are healthy for you. Examples are whole wheat bread, apples, beans, fruit and vegetables. Try to stick to whole and raw foods as much as you can – cut up fruit or vegetables combed with hummus are both filling and satisfying. Another great option is cottage cheese, a small piece of low fat cheese, or a handful of nuts. A balance of protein and healthy fats tend to feel more filling and take longer to digest so that you have energy throughout the day. Avocados or a small salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice are a great way to get a dose of healthy fats.

In order to stay away from the office vending machine, make sure to be prepared at all times. Bring pre-made snacks to work with you so that any time you feel hungry you have something that is nutritious on hand.