In a recent survey, more than 25% of Americans reported snacking multiple times a day. Snacking is great, but if you are trying to lose weight, it can be hurtful to your goals.
If you choose healthy snack options in moderation, then you can still meet your weight-loss goals without getting rid of your snacking habits.
Here are a few of our favorite nutritious treats to help you snack smarter and live a healthy lifestyle.
1. Apples and Peanut Butter
Apples and peanut butter is one of the most classic snacks around. You can't go wrong with this duo.
Apples are high in fiber, which is good for the digestive system. Peanut butter is not only delicious, but also high in healthy fats and extremely satiating. So, a little goes a long way.
2. Mixed Nuts
Nuts are a great choice if you need a quick boost of protein. One serving of mixed nuts can pack in 5 grams of protein.
When it comes to nuts, the options are endless. Some popular varieties include almonds, peanuts, macadamia nuts, cashews, almonds, and pecans.
It is important to note that nuts are not a low-calorie choice, so you need to be mindful of your portion size.
3. Celery and Cream Cheese
Calling all celery juice fanatics! Celery is a low-calorie vegetable that is great for the digestive system. Paired with cream cheese, it makes a delicious and healthy treat.
You can even spice this snack up by adding some "Everything But the Bagel" seasoning.
4. Popcorn
If you like volume in your snacks, then popcorn is the way to go. There are many delicious low-calorie popcorn options on the market today that allow you to eat a large amount while still staying under your daily caloric intake goal.
Be mindful of how you are making popcorn. Cooking popcorn in oil can add extra unwanted calories.
5. Protein Shake
Protein shakes make for an excellent nutritious and filling snack option. For those with a sweet tooth, protein shakes can easily be made into milkshakes by blending them with some ice.
If you are looking for a delicious and satiating protein shake, then check out our Hunger Control Shakes in both chocolate and vanilla.
6. Greek Yogurt with Berries
If you want a decent ice cream substitute, then greek yogurt with berries is a great option. It generally has less sugar and more protein than the average bowl of ice cream.
There are dozens of greek yogurt flavors to choose from and many different types of berries to top them with as well.
7. Watermelon
Because watermelon is made up of mostly water, it makes for a yummy, low-calorie treat that can also help you stay hydrated.
One serving of watermelon is made up of 91% water and contains only 30 calories. While fresh watermelon is amazing on its own, it is also delicious when frozen or added into shakes.
8. Carrots and Hummus
If plain carrots just don't cut it for you, then try dipping them in hummus. You will get your veggies in with the carrots while also taking in healthy fats from the hummus.
Hummus comes in a variety of flavors, so you can change it up whenever you want.
9. Tuna Salad and Crackers
Tuna is an excellent source of vitamin D and protein. Pairing it with crackers will be sure to leave you feeling full for hours.
If you want to make your tuna salad healthier, you can substitute the mayonnaise for plain greek yogurt or avocado.
10. Cheese and Crackers
If tuna isn't your thing, then cheese is also a great topper for your favorite cracker. When eaten in moderation, cheese can help to lower blood pressure while also increasing your protein intake.
Some of the healthiest cheese options are Mozzarella, Ricotta, and Parmesan.
11. Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is high in both protein and calcium, which is excellent for bone health. While cottage cheese is delicious on its own, some people love to add in extras such as pineapple or toasted nuts.
If you can't get enough of cottage cheese, then try out this cottage cheese protein pancake recipe.
12. Granola Bars
If you need a quick and easy snack on the go, then granola bars are a great option. Many granola bars are full of unneeded sugar, so it is important to read the nutrition label before you buy them.
In addition to granola bars, protein bars are also a great quick snack. Click here to check out a few of our protein bar options.
13. Dark Chocolate and Almonds
If you are looking for a sweet and salty snack, then try pairing dark chocolate with almonds. In moderation, dark chocolate can be highly beneficial. It is rich in minerals such as magnesium, zinc, and iron.
This snack is not low in calories, so it is important to moderate your intake.
14. Chia Pudding
Chia seeds are a superfood that is high in protein, calcium, and zinc. They are also known to increase "good" cholesterol and reduce spikes in blood sugar.
To make chia pudding, all you need to do is combine chia seeds, milk, and honey (or another sweetener) and let them sit in the fridge for two hours. The chia seeds will soak up the milk, creating a pudding-like texture and a tasty snack.
15. Roasted Chickpeas
If you love salty chips, then roasted chickpeas may be a great alternative for you. Chickpeas are very high in fiber and can also help prevent constipation and control blood sugar. Roasting chickpeas gives them a crunchy texture that makes them an excellent option for chip-lovers.
All you have to do is rinse your chickpeas, season them, and then dry them out in the oven. You can make this snack in bulk and store it in the pantry.
Try These Healthy Snack Options Today
So, if you want to start your healthy eating journey, then we hope these healthy snack options give you some inspiration. Eating healthy doesn't have to be a bore. There are many delicious alternatives for you to consider.
If you are trying to lose weight, then feel free to check out all of our healthy snacks and weight-loss supplements today.