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INUVIK - If your snacking habits have ever come into question, it might be time to switch to a healthier alternative for your cravings.

Sarah Reaburn is an interventionist with the Healthy Foods North program. Her role is to demonstrate and execute the phases of the program.

Sarah Reaburn is one of the facilitators of the Healthy Foods North program. She was recently in Stanton grocery store to provide demonstrations on healthy choices for snack foods. - photo courtesy of Sarah Reaburn

Earlier this year, the team of interventionists went to various offices in town, sharing the knowledge of healthier coffee stations.

"We wanted ways for people to take a look at what they were putting in their coffee," said Reaburn.

Now, with phase two of the program, the crew is invading stores to give demonstrations on how to prepare healthier snacks.

"Everybody eats snacks," she said.

The focus of the program is to look at the popular choices in the North, such as potato chips.

"We want people to eat a healthier version of chips, like baked chips," she said.

She added that moderation is also important to think about when looking at what snack to buy.

"There is always the option of sharing with others," she said. "Instead of two people having their own bag, they could share one bag."

During a store presentation last week, Reaburn explained the ways of preparing vegetables and fruits.

"It's all about proper portions," she said.

Substituting ingredients is another way to eat.

"You can use skim milk powder in a smoothie instead of milk," said Reaburn.

With the success of having a live demonstration in the store and being able to talk with people one on one, Reaburn hopes to bring their presentations into stores a few times a week. Promoting traditional foods is another important goal for the program.

"You don't have to eat mipku (dried meat) with butter and salt, you can also use a low-fat dressing," said Reaburn. "It's important that people eat traditional foods and keep them a part of their diet."

Look for Reaburn and the Healthy Foods North team the next time you're out for a snack.