Frenemies, Surprising Allies, and Wolves in Sheep's Clothing ROUND ONE

Frenemy #1: While researching the best healthy snacks, one thing stood out: nuts and nut butters (peanut butter, almond butter, etc.). I get it - nuts are a healthy fat, are a great source of protein, and leave you feeling full. But they make my Frenemy list because, while it's healthy, they're still high in fat. When I was pregnant with my daughter, I lost 12 pounds during the first trimester just because I was too queasy to eat much. My OB was relatively unconcerned about this until midway through the second trimester when I still hadn't started to gain any weight. At that point she told me I needed to increase my peanut butter intake. Let me just say I didn't have any problem with weight gain after that (over the next 4 months, I gained 40 pounds!!) So while it is healthy and full of protein, it might not be the best if weight loss is your goal. I now severely limit my nut and peanut butter intake (which stinks because I love peanut butter with fruit or on toast  or with chocolate or by the spoonful....).

Surprising Ally #1: Chocolate milk is rapidly moving toward the top of everyone's favorite healthy post-workout snacks. Chocolate milk, when compared to plain milk or most sports drinks, has almost twice the amount of carbohydrates and protein which are essential to refuel your muscles after a workout. This also gives your body something to metabolize after your workout which extends the effect your workout has on weight loss. Plus, it's super yummy!! I drink Mootopia (a lactose-free brand from HEB) and in one glass, there are 150 calories, only 4.5 grams of fat, 13 grams of carbs and 12 grams of protein!!! Note: You can lose up to half of your workout if you do not eat within a half an hour after finishing, so don't wait too long!

Wolf in Sheep's Clothing #1: Many people think that protein shakes or energy bars are an excellent choice when picking a healthy snack, especially for a post-workout snack. The truth is, the vast majority of these items aren't really good for you - they're simply candy bars or milkshakes disguised to be healthy by having added protein. Yes, the protein is great, but the rest is not. A far better alternative is to make your own fruit smoothie and add some protein powder. If you like the idea of an energy bar, check the ingredients and nutritional information very carefully. Pure bars are an excellent choice - while a little high in fat due to the nuts (Frenemy #1!!), they are made with all organic and/or all natural products and are a great source of protein.