Snack Happy Challenge with California Almonds

A couple of months ago I was contacted by the Almond Board of California to find out whether I would like to take part in their Snack Happy Challenge.  The idea of the challenge was simple - encouraging women to snack on almonds every day for 21 days to see how it makes a difference to their life.  I do enjoy eating almonds and as I have been trying to eat and snack healthier recently I thought I'd give it ago.

Almonds are a great option for snacking since they are rich in nutrients and cholesterol free. They are high in vitamin E and provide several key nutrients that can help support a healthy heart. Clearly, they're a much better option than reaching for a chocolate biscuit when you get peckish! One of the biggest problems I have found when it comes to food is portion control and I really liked this image that shows that how much a portion of almonds is - 30g or roughly 23 almonds.

Image Credit: http://www.almondboard.com/

So how did I find snacking on almonds? Surprisingly easy and satisfying would be the answer to that. 

California Almonds had provided me with a little snack tin which was perfect for holding the correct portion of almonds and it was very handy for keeping in my handbag.  I found that they were a great to have as a snack when I was out shopping or on the school run, as the handy tin meant I always had a snack to hand. I also enjoyed eating them as a nibble in front of the tv at night. TV watching and eating go hand-in-hand for me and I know that's a terrible habit to get into but I can at least make it better with a healthy snack can't I? 

Almonds are rich in protein and fibre - both of which help you feel satisfied for longer. I've found that by keeping some in my desk at work I've managed to beat that mid-afternoon energy lull that I have experienced so often and have usually tried to combat with a bar of chocolate! Almonds are a great way to keep your energy levels up and give yourself a little pick-me-up.

Image Credit: http://www.almondboard.com/

I've mainly been eating them as they are, plain, which is my favourite way to eat nuts but I may start to experiment and perhaps try them for breakfast with some natural yoghurt or perhaps making a bit of snack mix with some juicy raisins. 

I've kind of got into the habit now of snacking on almonds and I think I'll carry on with it. I'll definitely continue to keep a stash at work which will hopefully keep me more alert and I'll try and remember to carry some in my bag when I'm out of the day so I don't end up buying a big cookie or something!

Disclaimer: California Almonds has asked me to take part in the Snack Happy Challenge. They have provided me with all I need to complete the challenge. For more information about healthy snacking please visit www.AlmondBoard.co.uk