10 Healthy Snacks for Busy Kids and Adults

Many of us don't think about planning snacks. Snacks just happen. And too often that means we find ourselves standing in front of the vending machine, pulling through the drive-through or staring at the chips and cookies in the pantry.

The Tufts Health & Nutrition Letter recently reported that snacks now account for a quarter of the average American's calorie intake. Essentially, snacks add up to a fourth meal, so it's important to make sure your snacks have nutritional value, not just empty calories.

Here are 10 healthy snacks to try—and be sure to pack a snack when you or your kids are on the go:

• Apple or pear wedges with peanut butter
• Low-fat mozzarella cheese stick (string cheese) with whole-wheat crackers (look for whole wheat as the first ingredient listed)
• Whole-wheat wrap spread with hummus and topped with turkey lunch meat (look for nitrate free brands), lettuce and sunflower seeds or pine nuts
• Nuts (about the amount that fits in the palm of your hand) and a piece of fresh fruit
• Dried fruit (look for brands without added sugar or preservatives)
• Plain or vanilla nonfat or low-fat yogurt with berries and nuts
• Butter-free popcorn, with a sprinkling of parmesan cheese
• Baby carrot sticks with low-fat dressing for dipping
• Turkey roll-ups made with turkey slices spread with pesto and sprinkled with sunflower seeds and chopped lettuce and cherry tomatoes
• Celery sticks spread with peanut butter and topped with nuts or raisins