My mama went out and bought a bunch of different types of nuts since we all enjoy trail mix... but only certain aspects to it! My trail mix consisted of:
Homemade trail mix:
¼ cup shelled pistachios
1 cup whole cashews (50% less salt)
1 cup unsalted/roasted peanuts
½ cup m&ms
1 cup honey roasted peanuts
Nuts are the perfect snack if you are trying to find something with an average to low amount of carbs, high protein, and also high in fats. (DON'T BE SCARED TO EAT FATS!) They are also a bit high in calories, but for a mid-morning or afternoon snack, grabbing a handful is going to do great things for your body. Why not fill your belly while you are also helping yourself lower that "bad" cholesterol (LDL-C), and also getting some extra fiber in your diet!
Why lower LDL-C? LDL-C is short for "low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol" and it has a direct impact on the build up of plaque in your arteries. Thus, lowering your LDL-C count lowers your chances of suffering from heart disease!
Why do we need fiber? Fiber is an essential part of your diet. Fiber is a form of a non-digestible polysaccharide and helps keep blood sugar regulated. Fiber also helps regulate your bowel movements and also helps you feel full- so goodbye overeating!
For me, grabbing a small handful is enough to keep me satisfied for a couple of hours. And yes- you can most definitely add some m&m's. Eating in moderation is just fine! ;)
Homemade trail mix:
¼ cup shelled pistachios
1 cup whole cashews (50% less salt)
1 cup unsalted/roasted peanuts
½ cup m&ms
1 cup honey roasted peanuts
Nuts are the perfect snack if you are trying to find something with an average to low amount of carbs, high protein, and also high in fats. (DON'T BE SCARED TO EAT FATS!) They are also a bit high in calories, but for a mid-morning or afternoon snack, grabbing a handful is going to do great things for your body. Why not fill your belly while you are also helping yourself lower that "bad" cholesterol (LDL-C), and also getting some extra fiber in your diet!
Why lower LDL-C? LDL-C is short for "low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol" and it has a direct impact on the build up of plaque in your arteries. Thus, lowering your LDL-C count lowers your chances of suffering from heart disease!
Why do we need fiber? Fiber is an essential part of your diet. Fiber is a form of a non-digestible polysaccharide and helps keep blood sugar regulated. Fiber also helps regulate your bowel movements and also helps you feel full- so goodbye overeating!
For me, grabbing a small handful is enough to keep me satisfied for a couple of hours. And yes- you can most definitely add some m&m's. Eating in moderation is just fine! ;)