It’s 3 o’clock in the afternoon. Lunch was ages ago. Dinner is light years away. Your body is weak and your stomach sounds like a rumbling volcano. You find yourself wandering to the break room to stare at the vending machine stocked with fatty treats for outrageous prices. But you’re counting calories! You’re trying not to spend all your money on snack foods! What can you do?

The best option for snacking while on a diet is fresh fruit or vegetables. A quick snack that packs protein, like a serving of your favorite lean lunch meat, can help you refocus. A tall glass of water also helps to curb rumbling tummies. But every once in a while you just want something salty, crunchy and just plain “snacky.”

Reach for some Goldfish crackers to fight that snack attack.

Pepperidge Farm introduced the dieter’s best weapon against snack attacks in the 1960’s. A serving of Goldfish crackers ranges from 130 to 150 calories for around 60 crackers, depending on the particular flavor chosen. The varieties are abundant, such as Original (a light, buttery cracker with a savory taste), Cheddar (America's favorite), Pretzel, Parmesan (for refined palates), Pizza and more. Recently Pepperidge Farm introduced Garden Cheddar. These crackers have the added benefit of a third of a serving of vegetables included.

To save money, consider purchasing the large carton of Goldfish. When you’re packing your lunch, measure out a portion of Goldfish crackers and keep them fresh in a resealable sandwich baggie or small container. The large carton has a top that opens much like a carton of milk, making it easy to pour and close.

A serving size is generally 60 Goldfish. During the morning rush to pack lunches and get to work or school, it may be difficult to find the time to count out 60 little crackers. A good estimated portion size is about half a cup.

Because they’re baked, Goldfish crackers are a great substitute for potato or corn chips. Consider using them in place of croutons on your salads. You can also jazz up a cup of your favorite low-calorie, broth-based soup.

Don’t let snack attacks destroy your diet! Take some time in the morning to “arm” yourself with healthy choices and cut your calories without starving. Cutting your own fruits and vegetables and taking them with you during the day is a great way to keep your money in your pockets and your calorie intake low.

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Amanda Coers is a stay-at-home mother of three children. With a tight budget and an expanding waistline, she is constantly looking for ways to cut costs and calories. Amanda lives in Brownwood with her sweet family and rowdy Labrador puppy.