We all know it's hard to resist a good snack or stroll down the chip aisle when you're at the supermarket. Marketers know this, and they deliberately make their packaging and advertisements irresistible to our taste buds. Baby boomers are big-time snackers, but what's in your pantry has a big impact on your energy, mood and long-term health. You don't have to give up your favorite chips or cookies, but you should consider how your snack habits are affecting your well-being.

With these healthy snack ideas for baby boomers, you can give your diet a nutritional boost while still enjoying some tasty treats each day. If you consider yourself something of a snack aficionado, why not sign up for a subscription box from Munch? Instead of eating the same thing every week, you can look forward to a monthly package of curated snacks from around the world that will give your taste buds something to savor.

Why Your Snacks Matter

Many people think about their diet and leave snacks out of the mix. They're small, and often we don't realize that they still contribute to our health just like anything else we eat. It is possible to get many vitamins and minerals your body needs from simple snack choices. But, snacking too much can spoil your appetite, just like your mother used to warn you. They can also increase blood sugar levels or cholesterol, so it's important to moderate your consumption and the type of snacks you're eating. Even supposedly healthy foods at the supermarket can be loaded with trans fats, sugar and sodium. You'll find that the granola bars you thought were nutritional is packing half as many calories as a full meal. Being mindful of your caloric intake, as well as other nutritional values, can help you make better choices overall.

Olives

They're delicious and a bit fancy, and they go great with a sandwich or bit of cheese. Olives are filled with vitamin E, which contributes to cell health and prevents damage from free radicals. Free radicals are the chemical compounds produced by our bodies as they convert our food into energy. Too many can lead to health complications, including potential for increased risk of heart disease and some forms of cancer.

Carrot and Cucumber Sticks

Veggie sticks are great for munching as you watch your favorite program or read a book. Even if you buy them pre-sliced, make sure that you always thoroughly wash your vegetables, regardless of what their packaging says. This reduces the risk of any contamination from lingering chemicals or bacteria like salmonella or E. coli. Enjoy yours plain, or combine them with a low-fat dip. Hummus is a great option, and you can blend your own using a can of chickpeas, 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and some fresh garlic. Season to taste with fresh cracked black pepper and a pinch of salt.

Grapes

Grapes are tasty, bite-size, and perfect for snacking any time of day. They help stabilize cholesterol and blood pressure and act as an anti-bacterial. Grapes contribute to bone health thanks to vitamin K and C. A single cup of red grapes contains 288 mg of potassium, which can help lower your risk of heart disease. Low potassium levels can worsen and cause a wide range of health problems, including high blood pressure and stroke. So, every morning, add a handful of grapes to your breakfast plate, or enjoy a cup in the afternoon.