Working from home and having my office just steps from the fridge and pantry have been both a blessing and a curse. Sure, I’ve saved money on dining out – which includes those quick trips for a coffee and a treat – but having an assortment of less-than-healthy options at the ready has been a temptation. One that has rewarded me with a few extra pounds.
Which is why it’s time for me to replace many of those high-carb snacks (crackers, bagels, cookies, and bread) with some lower-carb choices. No, I’m not advocating for keto, but thelow-carb movement does include a few options that square nicely with a healthy, balanced diet.
Instead of snacking on a bowl of chips, why not grab a handful of trail mix? Provided you don’t have a nut or seed allergy, a low-carb version could include macadamia nuts, almonds, and pecans – raw or roasted – along with healthy seeds like pumpkin seeds (also known as pepitas) or sunflower seeds. If you like coconut, toss in unsweetened coconut chips, along with some unsweetened dried blueberries or cranberries.
And if you do still prefer something more akin to a chip, how about Mary’s “Super Seed” organic crackers? These are not without carbs, but are made with zero sugar, along with a nice balance of protein, fat, and fibre. Of course, you’ll also need a healthy dip, so grab a tub of hummus, roasted red pepper, or my favourite, guacamole. Concocting the latter at home is easy-peasy if you have ripe avocados, lime or lemon juice, chopped tomato, onion, and a pinch of salt. Cilantro is optional (particularly in my household), as are chilis. And there’s no shortage of recipes online to get the proportions right.
Granola bars are a popular ‘go-to’ for those who are looking for something healthier than a cookie or muffin. Depending on ingredients, that may not always be the case, so here’s a more low-carb ‘keto’ spin on this perennial favourite: Granola Bars.
If you’re running short on prep time, drop by one of our stores for some individually-sized, and healthy, grab-and-go options. Some of my favourites are the five-pack of falafels with tzatziki sauce, assorted veggies with dip (cleaned and cut – a real time saver), and a snack-pack that includes Babybel cheese, almonds, Rainbow crisps, and a pair of hard-boiled eggs. If it’s just a high-protein snack you seek (and you have no cholesterol issues) our four-pack of hard-boiled eggs may be just the ticket.
I’m not suggesting that these are all low-calorie choices, but a food’s impact on the body goes far beyond weight gain (or loss). Eating healthier is my mantra for 2022, and along with getting back to my regular workout and running routine – which will be easier when we emerge from this deep freeze and the current Omicron lockdown – I expect a leaner, more toned look by spring.
I’ll keep you posted…
— Neil
Neil Moore is the Brand Manager at Vince’s Market. He is also a freelance journalist, masters athlete, and family man who believes that excellence has no expiry date. That being said, Neil is not a medical doctor. This blog is for informational purposes only and is no substitute for professional medical advice.
