Snacking is a double-edged sword; it can be beneficial because it keeps your metabolism running, but it can also easily get out of hand. Personally, I snack when I’m bored, which adds unwanted extra calories to my daily diet. To counteract my bad snacking habit, I have learned to pick healthier foods. Here’s a list of some of the best summer snacking foods:

1. Watermelon

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The warm weather means a bounty of juicy, delicious fruit. So why not take advantage of these seasonal treasures. Watermelon is a low-calorie treat that allows for larger portions and has a natural sugars to satisfy that sweet tooth. And at just 45 calories per cup, you don’t have to feel guilty.

2. Hummus

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This is my latest obsession. Hummus is a Mediterranean dip or spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas, blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and garlic. It’s yellowish-tan appearance might put some people off, but don’t let that fool you. This thick, tasty spread is full of flavor. Local restaurant Oasis Cafe offers fresh hummus on their menu and serves it with warm pita bread. One word: yum. If you are carb-conscious, the dip also pairs well with vegetables such as carrots or celery.

3. Frozen yogurt

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Beat the heat with this cold, creamy treat. This option has less fat and calories than traditional ice cream and still gives that kick of sugary goodness. Columbia has a surplus of frozen yogurt stores including, Yogoluv, Red Mango, and Orange Leaf. But beware, the stores offer a variety of not-so-healthy toppings to add to your yogurt which can pack on unwanted calories and fat.

4. Frozen grapes

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This is an easy and inexpensive option. Placing the grapes in the freezer allows the little morsels to maintain their flavor, but gives them a new, interesting texture. It’s basically like little, bite-size Popsicles, only without the added sugar and preservatives.

5. Avocado

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Subway recently hopped on the avocado bandwagon and I don’t blame them. The soft, green super-fruit offers all sorts of benefits. Avocados are very versatile and can be added to almost any meal or snack. I eat avocados by cutting them into small slices, but you can also add them to salads, burgers or use them to make the delicious, Mexican-favorite guacamole. The options are endless.