You have probably noticed that single serving size products are hot items right now – walk down any aisle in the grocery store right now and you’ll find 100 calorie packs in just about everything!
While most of these items earn thumbs up because of their instant portion (and calorie) control, some are better than others. Many are nutritionally void, so don’t fall prey to impulse buys and “extras” to your diet just because they come in tiny packages.
However, if they help you stay on track because you would otherwise overdo it on the real sized package, then pick some up!
Below are some of my favorite portion controlled products. As you will see, the focus is on convenient and healthy since you know where to find the 100 calorie pack treats!
1. 100 Calorie Packs Emerald Snack Nuts. Even though nuts contain healthy fat and fiber – they are still high in fat, meaning higher in calories. Dipping your hand in the nut bowl too often can add quite a few calories to your day. Go nuts with portion controlled packs instead!
2. Bird’s Eye Steamfresh Singles. Now there is really no excuse to eat your veggies! Just pop one of these perfectly portioned bags in the microwave and you have a side of veggies in an instant!
3. Quaker Oatmeal Simple Harvest Instant Oatmeal. Yes, instant oatmeal is nothing new but what I like about these is that they are lower in sugar and higher in fiber than a lot of instant oatmeal. They even meet my criteria for a healthy cereal pick – less than 10 grams of sugar and more than 3 grams fiber.
4. 100 Calorie Bars (Hershey’s or Reese’s). Alright, you got me – these are not nutritious in the least bit! But, if you really need a chocolate fix, these will do the trick and in a portion controlled way! Sometimes, you just need the real thing – not modified versions of your favorites (like a lot of 100 calorie packs). Keep one in your drawer and not the whole box – like mini candy bars – you might not stop at one!
5. Pre-Cut Fresh Apple Slices. There’s something about a cold sliced crisp apple – yum! Now you can find them in single serve packs in the produce aisle. The bonus – they won’t brown like when you slice them yourself!
6. Sabra Hummus Cup with Pretzel Crisps. Hummus to go – genius! Carry some baby carrots along too and you have a healthy mini meal to go! This is a great pick when you are hungry but want something small from the grocery store.
Shauna Schultz, RD, has the nutrition solutions for all your weight loss questions. Premium Members have direct access via private email. Click here to become a Premium Member today!
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