Remember, eating small meals throughout the day will help you fight off cravings and stay energized. Here are some of my favorite healthy takes on traditional afternoon snacks:

Snack 1: Bag of chips or crackers

The Makeover: 1/2 c. steamed edamame (soy beans in pods) or whole-grain rice cakes topped with cottage cheese-based spread

The Advantage: Soybeans are great for you! They are high in protein and great for heart health. Get them in where you can. The more isoflavones, the better. Either snack choice has protein, which will help you feel fuller, longer.

Snack 2: Bars
(granola bars or energy bars)

The Makeover: 1/3 c. dried fruit (try apricots, apple slices or pears) with 1 oz. nuts (almonds or walnuts)

The Advantage: Add another serving of fruit to your list, and you're that much closer to beating the five-a-day guideline. Add nuts for protein and favorable fats.

Snack 3: Candy
(Snickers bar, chocolate -- anything out of the vending machine)

The Makeover: Make a chocolate protein smoothie! Add 1-2 scoops of chocolate-flavored protein powder to 8 oz. soy milk.

The Advantage: You'll get your chocolate fix and feel satisfied until your next meal.