Dieting on a Budget

Healthy snacks will keep energy levels high and prevent hunger between meals. The goal is to plan ahead and prepare fast, easy, and inexpensive snacks so we are not tempted by vending machines and convenience stores.

In her book, "The De-Stress Diva's Guide to Life", Ruth Klein offers the following suggestions:

• Core and cut an apple into slices. Add lemon juice to keep it from turning brown. Use a small sandwich bag or storage container.

• Peel an orange and eat it, section by section, when you feel hungry between meals. According to Klein, the process of peeling will divert your attention from a stressful situation for a minute or two.

• Hard-boil an egg to peel and eat later for a high-protein snack.

• Pre-measure eight to ten nuts, and put these small portions in sandwich bags or storage containers.

• Open up a single serving of low-fat yogurt and add a drizzle of chocolate or fresh preserves. Reseal for a snack at a later time.

• Substitute a cup of no-fat broth for that afternoon cup of coffee or tea. A cup of broth is considered a comfort food which can help you get through a high-stress afternoon. And, you will also feel fuller.