Snack: Broad Beans

When I'm out and about in Chiang Mai, I often find it difficult to avoid the temptation of purchasing a greasy street food snack. Initially, I saw no other filling option for hunger on the go. However, I have recently discovered broad beans.

These beans, found at any 7-11 store, are salty, crunchy, and full of protein to ward off hunger between meals. With one package at around 10 baht, they are definitely affordable as well. Also known as "fava beans," these are an alternative to almonds or peanuts (9g of fat per bag), and have considerably less fat. For one bag, there is about 210 calories. While this definitely is hefty, a bag is pretty big--and you can't discount the protein that you gain from this caloric investment.

For a light meal, grab a bag and a 0% Fat Coconut Dutchie yogurt--only 290 calories, 25 baht, and available at any 7-11.

Snack: Meiji Yogurt

One food that I have come to appreciate in Thailand more than I ever did at home is yogurt. Perhaps this is because my diet lacks much of the dairy that I was able to get at home; finding fresh dairy like cheese in Chiang Mai is possible, but it will cost you (plus it's just not the same).

Whatever the reason may be, yogurt is a great option for those who are looking for a high-fit, low-fat snack. According to the American Dietetic Association, yogurt is made with "friendly" bacteria; these bacteria are thought to aid with digestion as well as boost immunity. And, as most dairy does, yogurt provides a lot of calcium which can be hard to get here. I tried a variety of yogurts in my search for the "one," and the following are my results. Luckily yogurt is a food that can be easily located, especially because it is located in every 7-11 (and 7-11 is everywhere).

1) Dutchie Original

The first yogurt on the roster is made by Dutchie brand. The original flavor has 150 calories per container with 4 grams of fat. This yogurt is absolutely delicious, but, at 150 calories, perhaps not the best Fit Farang option.

2) Dutchie Original 0% Fat

After this, I moved on to the 0% Fat Dutchie Original. However, I am always hesitant to choose the "fat-free" options over the original; oftentimes, fat-free means that food is just packed with more chemicals while still containing the original amount of sugar. 80 calories per container.

3) Meiji Original

However, the winner of this challenge remains Meiji Original flavor. At 70 calories, this plain yogurt has no sugar added, making it the most natural choice. Though it is unsweetened (which I personally don't mind), it can be complemented with fruit to make up for the lack of sugar if you are craving something sweet.