Snacks, snacks, snacks! I love a quick snack in the afternoon! People are always asking me if they should eat snacks and what they should have if they have prediabetes. The answer to the first question is-- you should have a snack if you are hungry! A balanced snack can keep you from getting over hungry (hangry anyone?). An over hungry person is more like to struggle with making good choices at the next meal and more likely to overeat at that meal. But a snack doesn't always mean a crinkly bag of chips or a few cookies. Yes, these foods taste good and can be part of a snack occasionally, but usually leave you still hungry or hungry again 10 minutes later. I recommend most snacks contain some protein and/or heart healthy fats as well as some carbohydrates (complex if you can!) and if you are still hungry, add in some crunchy raw veggies too. So what's a good snack for people with prediabetes (or really anyone!)? Here's a list of my favorite fast snacks!

1. a piece of fruit and cheese stick

2. Celery and a tablespoon of peanut butter

3. An apple and a tablespoon of peanut butter

4. 1/2 whole wheat pita and 2 tbsp hummus

5. mini guacamole cup and cucumber slices

6. greek yogurt with a handful of berries

7. handful of trail mix (nuts and dried fruit)

8. handful of corn tortilla chips and mini guac cup

9. small bowl of cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella (add basil & balsamic vinegar)

10. cottage cheese and fruit (pineapple is my favorite!)