Ah, Nuts

I've always been an avid believer in snacking. Eating throughout the day, instead of consuming three large meals, not only keeps your blood sugar levels more stable, but it allows your energy to last throughout the day and not dip and spike drastically.

Now that I'm expecting a little of my own and my metabolism is on overdrive, I've been searching for ways to stay full throughout out the day, while staving off morning sickness and getting the minerals and nourishment I need. 

​Enter, nuts. 

​Since week 6 of my pregnancy, almonds have been a must-have when I'm out and about. They keep me full, have helped the nausea and are a great source of fiber, protein and healthy fat. 

Nuts (and seeds too!) have always been a must when creating snacks that are healthy and filling. My most popular snack recipes being my Blueberry Pumpkin Trail Mix, my delectable & warm Maple Cinnamon Almonds and my Double Chocolate Protein Balls. 

Nuts.com offers MANY healthy, nutty snack ideas as well. With options for kiddos, work, holiday parties and vegan options, there is something for everyone. I love shopping their extensive shop of organic chocolate, nuts, seeds and dried fruit to make crazy trail mixes. I'm not down with what's sold in regular stores and I love creating my own concoctions. Like a mix of sunflower seeds, fresh dried coconut, cranberries and dairy-free dark chocolate. It's a rich, sweet and decadent treat with plenty of nutrients and vitamins for me and baby. 

Mixing cashews with dried fruit is always a yummy fruity/salty combination as well and gives me good energy when I'm working on tight deadlines. Nuts make for great brain fuel. 

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Aside from their aesthetically pleasing shop, Nuts.com also offers a great guide to satisfy cravings and let me tell you this is a God send right now.

I'm craving all things hardcore and I love knowing there are HEALTHY options when I want something salty, savory or sweet. My body may be asking, or begging, for pie or potato chips, but I know better as not only a Nutritionist, but as someone looking out for the best health for me and my future little. This Pinnable chart on the left is a great reference guide to alternatives to candy, oily snacks or otherwise nutrient bankrupt options. 

It's also fun to make your own snacks. Mr. Charming and I invested in a dehydrator a couple of years and make our own beef jerky, dried fruit and more regularly. Especially when we are going to travel or go camping. 

You can also "chocolate-cover" your own fruits and nuts for a healthier options, as so many store bought options use added sugar and milk. I like to melt dairy-free, high quality organic dark chocolate and hand dip berries, nuts and organic raisins and chill for a quick and easy snack to grab. Or I top rice cakes and almond butter with them for an alternative to a sweet and savory popcorn option on movie night since we are a corn-free house as well. 

I would love to hear your favorite snack options and your favorite way to incorporate nuts into your day. Leave it in the comments below.