Many of us snack compulsively, barely conscious of how much or what we're nibbling on. The first step in smart snacking is to be mindful. The next is to make healthy choices.

Here are some snacking ideas from the Georgia Pecan Commission:

• Natural snacks such as pecans and other nuts. For the best taste, toast them first in the oven or in a skillet.
   
• Mix toasted pecan halves with raisins and other dried fruits for a healthy, satisfying trail mix.
   
• Top your favorite rice pudding with chopped, toasted pecans.
   
• Top your favorite frozen yogurt with pecans for added crunch and nutrition.
   
• Chop some fresh fruit (apples, oranges, pears, plums, etc.) and make a refreshing fruit compote; topping it with sweet Georgia pecans.