Avoiding the Back-to-School Snacking Trap – Tips You’ll Love!

With back-to-school season in full swing, I wanted to chat about something I’ve been thinking about a lot lately—how easy it is to snack while getting the kids ready. Whether it’s packing their lunches, making breakfast, or prepping after-school snacks, those little nibbles can really add up.

I don’t know about you, but when I’m in the kitchen, it’s almost automatic to grab a bite here and there. A piece of turkey, a handful of nuts or crackers, maybe a little bit of what we’re packing for them. It doesn’t seem like much, but over time, it can make a big difference in how we feel and in our overall health.

So, I wanted to share a few things that have helped me avoid the mindless snacking trap:

1. Keep Your Mouth Busy

One thing that works wonders for me is keeping my hands busy with something other than food. While I’m making my daughter’s lunch, I’ll sip on a cup of herbal tea, drink some water with lemon or do it right after I brush my teeth. It keeps my mouth happy and helps me avoid that urge to snack.

2. Snack Before You Prep

If you’re feeling hungry while you’re getting the kids’ meals ready, try having a healthy snack before you start. Something like a piece of fruit, a handful of nuts, or some veggies with hummus can satisfy your hunger and prevent you from grazing while you’re in the kitchen.

3. Drink Water

Sometimes, we mistake thirst for hunger. Keeping a water bottle nearby and sipping on it while you’re prepping can help you stay hydrated and curb the urge to snack.

4. Remind Yourself of Your Goals

It can be helpful to take a moment and remind yourself why you want to avoid snacking while prepping the kids’ food. Maybe you’re working on eating healthier, or perhaps you’re focusing on your overall well-being. Keeping those goals in mind can make it easier to resist the temptation.

5. Get the Kids Involved

If your kids are old enough, why not make food prep a team effort? I started my daughter helping pack her own lunch in first grade. When you’re focused on teaching them how to make their own lunches or snacks, you’re less likely to think about snacking yourself. Plus, it’s a great way to teach them about healthy eating habits.

At the end of the day, it’s all about being mindful and making small changes that add up over time. I know it’s not always easy, but with a little bit of planning and some healthy habits in place, we can navigate this busy season without falling into the snacking trap.

What do you think? Do you have any tips or tricks that help you stay on track during the back-to-school hustle? I’d love to hear them!

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