12 Snacks to Help Quiet Hunger

At 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. everyday just like clockwork, I start to hear my stomach growl.  Having a mid day and afternoon snack is actually good for your weight loss plan.  Having a healthy snack will ensure that you won't be too hungry when meal time rolls around.  Being overly hungry at lunch or dinner can lead to overeating.


So one of the keys to losing weight is to eat more often.  However, that doesn't mean you head to the pantry and grab the bag of potato chips.  Choosing the right healthy foods can help you to quiet the hunger pangs and make you feel full longer.  Here are 12 snacks to help you ward off that hunger monster.

Oh Nuts!

Mix together a combination of pecans, almonds, peanuts, cashews, chili powder, black pepper and a pinch of cayenne.  Roast in a 400 degree oven for 10 minutes. 

Ants on a Log

Spread reduced fat peanut butter on a celery stick and top with raisins.

Boil up Some Edamame

Edamame?  What the heck is edamame?  Edamame is a green vegetable most commonly known as a soybean.  So, boil a few cups of frozen edamame until tender.  Drain and toss with a light coating of sesame oil, red pepper flakes and salt.

Hit the Trail Mix

Mix together 1 cup of almonds, walnuts and/or cashews with 1/2 cup of sunflower seeds and 1 and 1/2 cups of dried fruit such as raisins, apples, apricots and/or banana chips.  I make this frequently -- it's a great snack.

Pita Pocket

Stuff a pita pocket with sliced tomato, onion and lettuce topped with a generous portion of hummus.

Cheesy Pepper Bombs

Stuff cherry peppers with soft goat cheese or mini balls of fresh mozzarella.

 Turkey Cheese Roll Up

Layer a slice of Swiss cheese with a slice of deli turkey and add a spoonful of hummus or guacamole.  Roll it up and eat it up.


Cheese Kabob

Cut mozzarella into 1/2-inch cubes and then skewer on toothpicks with pitted green olives and sundried tomatoes.

Parmesan Popcorn 

Pop a bag of popcorn and while it's still hot, toss the popcorn with a half cup grated Parmesan.


Mexican Tuna Dip

Mix together a can of tuna with salsa. Use Triscuits or other whole grain cracker for scooping.

Sugar and Spice Popcorn

Pop a bag of popcorn and while it's still hot, toss with a tablespoon of melted butter, then add 2 tablespoons of sugar and a teaspoon of cinnamon.

Peanut Butter Banana Toast

Spread peanut butter on a slice of toasted wheat bread. Add banana slices and drizzle with honey.