crunchy

I guess you could say I am pro snacking, but it has got to be healthy snacking - no cheesy puffs, please.

Sometimes when we need a snack we are either too hungry or have too strong of a hankering to make a healthy choice. So here are some ideas for healthy swaps.

Sweet
Raisins or dried cherries mixed with dark chocolate chips
Sliced peaches
Maple flavored yogurt
Chocolate ice cubes

Salty
Almonds or pistachios,
Whole-grain crackers like Kashi TLC crackers
Dill pickles

Crunchy
Celery or carrot sticks
A handful of high-fiber cereal
Apple slices
Popcorn

Creamy
Low-fat pudding
Nonfat plain yogurt with fresh fruit
Flavored oatmeal
Nonfat cottage cheese (add some fruit)
Avocado wedges

If you have a healthy snack idea? Share it in the Snack Attack: Healthy Snack Ideas Group. I am always on the lookout for a great snack.

Do you crave sweets like chocolate and candy? Or maybe you want something salty to snack on like pretzels or nuts. No No No. You're in the mood for a big, juicy, mouth watering steak.
Whatever you're craving, Dr. Oz says, "The gut and the brain are the two most closely related organs. So it makes perfect sense that the foods we eat change the way our brains function."

Your snack of choice could clue you into what you're needing and wanting emotionally.

• Meat could mean you're angry
• Sweets might be a sign of depression
• Ice cream might mean you're anxious
• Salty snacks could mean you're stressed
• Pasta might signal loneliness or sexual frustration
• All of the above might mean you're just a little bit jealous