SNACK ALTERNATIVES

April 4, 2002

SNACK ALTERNATIVES

INSTEAD OF UNHEALTHY SNACKS:

Often when we think of a snack, something very sweet or very salty comes to

mind. Turn on your mind to a multitude of other possibilities.

Treat yourself to a piece FRESH FRUIT in season instead of unhealthy fat and

calorie-loaded potato or corn chips.

RAW NUTS OR SEEDS in small quantities such as one or two handfuls make a

nutritious and satisfying snack. Avoid nuts that are roasted in oil--these

may contain artery clogging trans fats, a fate worse than saturated fat.

Pass on the salted nuts as well. It's easy to consume an excess of salt that

the body cannot handle, and it disguises the rich flavor of nuts in their

natural state. Dry roasted nuts and seeds are delicious with a pleasant

crunchiness and an enhanced flavor that you may also enjoy.

AIR-POPPED POP CORN is an ideal snack. If you're used to heavily seasoned

popped corn, this is your opportunity to discover the true taste of popped

corn without the cover-ups. Many seasoned popped corn varieties contain

partially hydrogenated oils (trans fats that are artery clogging.)

Commercially made cookies, cakes, and candies may contain eggs, dairy

products, and partially hydrogenated oils (trans fats). Commercially

processed peanut butter may also contain added oils that have trans fats.

Choose a NATURAL PEANUT BUTTER, ALMOND BUTTER, or CASHEW BUTTER to spread on

whole-grain breads, crackers, celery, or endive leaves.

Discover the rich grain flavor and high fiber of RYE-CRISP, RYE-VITA, or

WASA instead of commercially made crackers that may contain partially

hydrogenated oils. These crackers are made from 100% whole rye.

There are always CARROT AND CELERY STICKS, but have you ever tasted the

crisp sweetness of a KOHLRABI or the pungent flavor of ANISE in the spring

when they are at their peak of flavor? Serve them sliced for an ideal finger

food. Even a homegrown vine ripened TOMATO makes a fabulous snack.

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