We all have cravings and most of the time we want something salty or sweet.  So what do we choose to eat?  We don’t pick anything really healthy, we choose junk food, such as potato chips, cookies, candy, ice cream, etc.  These are empty calorie foods and we know it but they to taste so good.

We eat these foods knowing we are harming ourselves but they are so easy to get and everywhere you go you see them.  For those of us that work in an office, those are the wonderful and sinful treats we can easily get at the vending machines.

It’s so bad that we make sure we keep change in our desk so that we can get that snack we desire. However, these aren’t the only snacks available to us.  Sure, we can eat carrots, celery, apples, grapes, etc. but it’s not what we want.  We want something that taste sinful and that it truly satisfies our cravings.  By now you are wondering what can replace these snacks and still satisfy our craving?  There are other snacks available to us that are healthy but sweet and delicious.  In the market nowadays, you will find snack bars.  There are different types and are perfect for when you have that craving.  To choose the right healthy bar, use these four tips:

• 3 grams of fiber or more
• 5 of protein or more
• Low in sugar
• Low in fat

With these tips, when we go shopping we can choose the best ones for us.  However, it is difficult to find a bar that has all the four qualities noted above but there are many that come very close.  When choosing a snack bar, make sure it’s a flavor you will like.  You might want to buy a single one and see if it’s to your liking.  Another thing to remember is if these snack bars are going to replace a meal, make sure they are truly satisfying and they should be at least 230 calories.  Here are some of the snack bars that are considered some of the best:

• Nature Valley Granola Bars
• Quaker Oatmeal Breakfast Squares
• Kashi Go Lean
• Power Bar Harvest
• Lunar Bars
• Zing Bars 
• Clif Bars

This is a very short list but these are some of the best snack bars available.  These snack bars have different flavors, both salty and sweet.  They will fill you up and at the same time, satisfy your craving.  You won’t feel guilty eating these and it’s definitely not empty calories.  Some of these are perfect for replacements with plenty of protein and fiber.  The good thing about these bars is that they can be kept at home or in your desk at the office.  Also, you can always have one with you, just in case you get hungry.  Doing this will help you avoid stopping at the nearest convenient store or fast food restaurant.

It’s true, eating the same thing over and over again can be boring.  So, what you should do is always have a variety, keep at least two or three different flavors and/or brands.  Now here is a reminder, these are good but you should alternate.  If you have a replacement bar in the morning, make sure to eat something different for lunch.  Maybe some fruits, salads, veggies and add a yogurt.  Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring, it can be tasty, just be creative.  Remember the reason you are doing this is to either lose weight or stay fit.  We are all busy and at times and find it difficult to make ourselves a healthy meal and these snack bars provide us with a quick and healthy option so we don’t skip any meals.