The newness of a season is packed with such potential, such promise, often prompting a sense of change. It’s a new dawn, it’s a new day... it’s a time for fresh-starts and introducing healthy new habits into our routines. If you’re looking to hit reset on your snacking habits, keep reading. We’ve compiled a list of our best tips on how to infuse your choices with healthier options along with points to consider before taking your next bite.
Keep it within reach
Healthy snacks, to the front! Make it easy to grab good-for-you alternatives. To satisfy those sweet cravings with healthy options consider placing Natural Balance Shakes out in the open — better yet, give them their own spot directly on the kitchen counter.
And while we’re mixing things up, consider stashing Natural Balance Bars protein bars with berries in your fruit bowls. Yes, you read that right, bowls plural. Placing multiples throughout your home is another convenient way to help you make the right choice when hunger pangs.
Plan ahead
Make stocking the fridge and cupboards with Oriflame’s own Natural Balance Bars, and Natural Balance Shakes, fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, popcorn, and even dark chocolate a common practice. Again, convenience is key. And if the shelves are lined with healthier options there’s less room (read: less temptation) to grab junk-food.
Pick snacks packed with protein and fibre
Eating an adequate amount of protein is more likely to help stabilize blood sugar levels and help you avoid overeating throughout the day. Both protein and dietary fibre can be an easy way to fuel up between meals with fewer calories, curbing sugar cravings and allowing you to feel full for longer.
With the right tools — are those cupboards stocked? — it’s easier to whip up a snack that balances sources of protein and fibre. For a pro snacking tip, try our Natural Balance shakes — an excellent source of protein that come in a variety of tasty flavours — along with an apple.
And if you’re in the mood for a decadent treat, make a flavourful smoothie by mixing the Natural Balance Shake chocolate in the blender with a banana and a little milk. Serve and enjoy! Both make tasty snacks that are high in protein and fibre, helping to tide you over until your next meal.
Practice mindful eating
Multitasking during meals and TV dinners are a thing of the past. It’s time to bring our awareness back to our dishes, as the benefits are proving to be substantial.
According to an article written for the Journal of Obesity, eating mindfully is proven to reduce stress levels and even maintain weight. Additionally, it may help to provide a positive relationship between you and food by decreasing the chances of emotional or binge eating that can result in overeating.
So, the next time you bite into something savoury slow down and consider the tastes, smells, textures. Chew with intent, bringing the attention back to what you’re eating. You may be surprised it’s easier to listen to your body’s signals of when you’re satisfied or at the very least, find a new appreciation for food.
Pro Tip: How to make a new habit stick
In our efforts to succeed in our goals, it might be worth acknowledging that new habits aren’t always easy to set and may require a bit of genuine effort before they actually take hold.
Recent research shows that it can take over two months (66 days, more or less) for new behaviours to feel like a natural part of your routine.
Since individualistic traits/circumstance can fluctuate this adjustment period, we suggest approaching a new routine with realistic expectations. Yes, by all means, shoot for the stars! But rather than burning all your fuel in a rocketship consider travelling by hot air balloon. Meaning, your best approach to stay motivated and on-track is with small steps, knowing your limits, and above all, being kind to yourself. Hang in there, with the right amount of determination and regularity this new habit will feel like second nature in no time.
