Cravings: like an enemy we can’t defeat, they can often leave us feeling helpless. But, the science of snacking is changing! Nowadays, instead of reaching out for empty calories, there are healthier options that can both satisfy and fill us up. We’re here to show you the nutritious snacks to help you reach for the treats that your body likes…and your taste buds too!
1. Snack Smarter: Nutrient-Rich Treats to Satisfy Your Cravings
Sometimes, we all face the urge to snack. When cravings strike, why not upgrade your snacking game with some nutritionally-loaded treats? Here are some excellent snack ideas that you can enjoy guilt-free.
Fruits & Nuts: Nature’s perfect snacks, fruits and nuts are packed with essential vitamins and minerals for much-needed nourishment. You can choose to snack on simple fruits like bananas, apples, oranges, and strawberries, or get a bit more creative with your munchies. You can make your own trail mix with nuts and dried fruits for a yummy, balanced treat. Or make a snack mix with nuts, cereal, banana chips, and even a few dark chocolate chips!
Yogurt: Yogurt is one of nature’s best snacks. Choose a variety with a high protein content, topped with some crunchy granola and fresh berries for a nutritious and balanced mid-day pick-me-up. There are countless flavors of yogurt to choose from. From matcha to lavender, you can have a different experience with every single snack.
Energy Bites: These make for an excellent and delicious snack. These small treats are made from a combination of oats, nuts, peanut butter and dried fruits. Not only are they incredibly tasty, but they are also super healthy and easy to make. Just mix all the ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for an hour. After that, you can roll them into balls, store in the refrigerator and enjoy a protein packed-snacking experience.
Edamame: Love your greens? Edamame is an excellent source of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. Have a bowl of boiled edamame with a little pinch of sea salt for a savory snack when you crave something light. You can also mix it with some low-fat mayonnaise or garlic and herbs for a delicious dip-and-eat experience.
Remember, smart snacking is all about finding the right balance between indulgence and nutrition. With these nutrient-rich snacks, your cravings can be satisfied without sacrificing your health goals.
2. Indulge in Delicious Snacking that Won’t Derail Your Diet
Our diet isn’t always about strict restrictions and culinary torture – and there’s no better way to prove it than snacking! Eating snack foods in moderation can actually help keep your diet on track by satisfying cravings, preventing overeating, and curbing hunger between meals.
So, why not enjoy some delicious snacks that don’t drain your willpower and still fit your diet plan? Here are some of our absolute favorite munchies that won’t make you feel guilty afterwards:
- Fruit and Nuts. Fresh or dried fruit and a handful of nuts make a great snack to tide you over until your next meal. It’s both nutritious and delicious – what more can you ask for?
- Yogurt and Berries. Give yogurt a flavor boost with fresh or frozen berries. Add some crunch with a handful of nuts or a sprinkling of granola.
- Trail-Mix. Trail-mix is an all-time favorite snack that’s versatile and yummy. Mix nuts, dried fruit, and a few dark chocolate chips for a real treat.
- Roasted Chickpeas. Roasted chickpeas make a great snack that’s low in fat and high in fiber. They come in a variety of delicious flavors – from chili-lemon to garlic-paprika.
If you like savory snacks, try making snacks from veggies. Carrots, celery, bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach are great for dipping. Hummus, cream cheese, pesto, or guacamole make amazing dips.
When it comes to snacking, variety is key. Change up your snacks every once in a while and you’ll find delicious munchies that keep your diet and your tastebuds happy.
3. The Nutritional Superstars of Snacking: Your Key to a Healthy Lifestyle
When it comes to snacking, some foods tend to stand out for delivering an unbeatable nutritional punch. Luckily for us, these star snacks are easier to come by than ever before. Here are some of the top nutritional superstars of snacking and how you can benefit from including them in your diet.
Nuts and Seeds
An excellent source of protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, nuts and seeds make an excellent snack choice. Simple, convenient, and packed with nutrients, snack on roasted, salted, or – for the healthiest option – unsalted nuts or seeds. If you prefer a sweeter taste, try adding a few chopped dried fruits to your snack mix.
Avocados
A type of berry, avocados provide an abundance of essential vitamins and minerals, as well as healthy fats. They have a classic creaminess that makes them great for spreading on toast or adding to sandwiches and salads. They make an excellent snack on their own too. Eat them diced or spread on crackers for a tasty and nutritious snack.
Veggies
- Low-calorie
- Portable
- Easily available
- Versatile
Vegetables are the unsung heroes of healthy snacking. They are:
Take your pick of crisps or bigger, crunchy pieces for a tasty snack that’s packed full of important vitamins and minerals. For a dip to go with it, pack some hummus – made from chickpeas and olive oil – for a nutritional boost. Alternatively, make pesto with fresh basil and olive oil for a more flavorful alternative. And don’t forget to include some green veg pieces too – they contain important antioxidants and fiber for a balanced snack.
4. The Best and Brightest Snack Ideas to Keep You Going All Day
Snacking throughout the day helps provide energy to ensure you tackle all of your tasks with ease. Instead of opting for unhealthy snacks such as chips and candy, keep these nourishing options handy for whenever you need a quick pick-me-up.
- Overnight oats: This snack is soothing and will keep you energized. Prep the night before by mixing a portion of rolled oats, oat milk, your favorite fruits and nuts. In the morning, listen your oats with honey or agave and a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can even swap your oats for chia seeds or quinoa for a higher-protein option.
- Fruit salad: An array of juicy and fragrant fruits will give your body a dose of vitamins and minerals. Chop up a mix of your favorite fruits like apples, oranges, strawberries and bananas. Need a more filling option? Add a scoop of Greek yogurt or a handful of your favorite nuts.
When you’re out and about and don’t have time to pack a snack, why not opt for healthy convenience store options? Look for labels that are low in sugar and saturated fat, and will provide protein-rich nourishment.
For crispy lovers, try plantain chips, ‘baked not fried’ varieties of potato chips, or go for a savory bread with a nut butter spread.
For those who prefer something sweet, look for dark chocolate with nuts and seeds or an energy bar made from only natural ingredients.
- Trail mix:
Grab a store-bought or make your own trail mix with a mix of crunchy nuts, seeds, and dried fruit to satisfy those cravings. Not only are they nutritious, but they can also be filling and great for when you’re on the go.
At the end of the day, it’s all about finding balance. If you opt for whole foods most of the time, there’s no need to abstain from your favorite treats. Choose one day a week to indulge your cravings, and rest assured knowing that you’re making snacking decisions that are providing your body with essential nutrients.
When snack cravings hit, it doesn’t have to be a debate between healthy and indulgent. With just a little effort and a bit of imagination, you can opt for something that satisfies your taste buds and fuels your body. Give in to your cravings and grab one (or all!) of these nutritious snacks. Your body, mind, and taste buds will thank you.
