Snack city is a real place. You begin to enter at about 3pm when that little niggle starts hitting your tum and next minute, 3.30-itis has struck bad!

Thing is, we need to snack to replenish our bod with energy spent and to keep our brain going. It’s very easy to wander over to Mr Vending Machine to see what wares he is offering today, but with a little bit of planning, it’s easier (tasiter AND better for you) you can have healthy treats ready and awaiting that belly grumble.

“Eating can be considered the grownup pacifier and can calm, distract or even numb us from what’s happening, but it’s not a solution.”

 

A few tips to help you snack happy:

• As with everything, moderation is the key to smart snacking.

• Snack when you’re actually hungry (and check you’re not really thirsty!) When there is time between meals, you may need a bite to tide you over.

• Don’t emotionally snack! Eating can be considered the grownup pacifier and can calm, distract or even numb us from what’s happening, but it’s not a solution. Snack mindfully and notice when you’re reaching for the cookie jar. You may have fallen into the trap of an afternoon treat every day; react to why you’re seeking it and try and change the habit. Have a glass of water or a herbal tea instead and see how you feel.

• Plan ahead. Don’t expect healthy snacks to just pop up.

• Just keep chewing! Studies have shown those who chew (up to 40 chews) felt fuller for longer than those who chewed less.

This is one of my fave TIFFXO snacks from my online health and fitness program to help you snack smart. More free recipes are online at successnq.com.au.

 

Cashew & date bliss balls

Need a before or after training snack to help replenish that lost shine? Not only are my TIFFXO Cashew & Date Bliss Balls delicious, they’ll help give you a bit more up and go for the rest of your day.

Note: these are not limited to training. Consider this an all-the-time snack!

 

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup pitted dates

• 11/2 cup cashews

• 2 tbsp almond butter

• 1 tbsp chia seeds

• 2 tbsp coconut oil (melted)

• 2 tbsp rice malt syrup

• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (to coat)

 

Method

1. Place dates in bowl of water and soak for 10 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, place cashews in a food processor and blitz until a rough crumb has formed.

3. Add dates, almond butter, chia, oil and syrup to cashews in food processor and blitz until ingredients come together.

4. Roll mixture into 12 balls and roll into shredded coconut.

 

 

Roasted carrot hummus

My TIFFXO Roasted Carrot Hummus is that perfect afternoon treat. Pair with veggies for the ultimate combo.

 

Ingredients

• 3 medium carrots (trimmed and cut in chunks)

• 1 tsp olive oil

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 400g tin chickpeas, (rinsed)

• 1 tbsp tahini

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• salt and pepper (to taste)

• 1 pita bread (warmed)

• 8 radishes (cut in half)

• 1 carrot, cut in matchsticks

 

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.

2. Brush 3 carrots with oil, toss with cumin and bake for 20 minutes, or until cooked through.

3. Cool slightly and roughly blend in a food processor with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice and 1/4 cup water. Add extra water if needed. Adjust seasonings.

4. Serve hummus with pita bread, radishes and carrot sticks.