Snack back into action

Snacks are an important part of our daily diet. In between meals, it's these tasty little treats that will keep us feeling energized and full, which will help prevent us from overeating once meal time rolls around. Good snack choices are planned, small, and well-balanced.

Since the generally agreed upon goal is to eat five to six small meals a day, this means up to three of these "meals" will actually be healthy snacks. To that end, limit each snack to between 100 and 200 calories, and make sure they are substantive. Balanced snacks contain small amounts of carbohydrates, protein, and fat.

Here are some healthy snacks that will help power you through the day:

• Greek yogurt with mixed berries
• An apple with a tablespoon of peanut butter
• Baked tortilla chips with salsa
• Peanut butter on whole-wheat crackers
• Wholegrain pita stuffed with vegetables and melted low-fat cheese
• High fiber cereal with low-fat milk
• Handful of almonds or walnuts
• Scoop of whey protein mixed with water or low-fat milk and a fruit