Craving a snack but worried about packing on the pounds? You’re not alone. The good news is that you can indulge in delicious snacks without derailing your healthy eating goals. Here are seven must-have snack options that will satisfy your cravings without the guilt.
1. Greek Yogurt with Berries
Why It’s Great: Greek yogurt is high in protein, which helps keep you full and satisfied. Pairing it with fresh berries adds natural sweetness and a dose of antioxidants without a lot of extra calories. The combination of protein and fiber can help curb your appetite and keep you feeling full longer.
How to Enjoy: Choose plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt to avoid added sugars. Top with a handful of berries like blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries for a nutritious and satisfying snack.
2. Almonds
Why It’s Great: Almonds are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making them a perfect snack to keep hunger at bay. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E and magnesium, which support overall health.
How to Enjoy: Stick to a small handful (about 23 almonds) to keep calorie intake in check. You can enjoy them raw or lightly roasted, and they make a great on-the-go snack.
3. Hummus and Veggies
Why It’s Great: Hummus is a nutrient-dense dip made from chickpeas, which are high in protein and fiber. Pairing hummus with crunchy vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers gives you a satisfying snack that’s low in calories but high in nutrition.
How to Enjoy: Scoop out about two tablespoons of hummus and enjoy with your favorite fresh veggies. This snack is great for curbing hunger between meals while adding a variety of nutrients to your diet.
4. Popcorn
Why It’s Great: Popcorn is a whole grain and can be a healthy, low-calorie snack when prepared correctly. It’s high in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full without adding many calories to your diet.
How to Enjoy: Opt for air-popped popcorn without added butter or oil. You can add a sprinkle of sea salt or your favorite herbs and spices for flavor without extra calories.
5. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter
Why It’s Great: Apples are a good source of fiber and natural sweetness, while peanut butter provides healthy fats and protein. Together, they make a delicious and satisfying snack that balances carbohydrates, protein, and fat.
How to Enjoy: Slice a medium apple and pair it with one to two tablespoons of natural peanut butter. Be mindful of portion sizes, as peanut butter is calorie-dense.
6. Cottage Cheese
Why It’s Great: Cottage cheese is high in protein and low in fat, making it a great option for a filling snack. It’s also rich in calcium, which is important for bone health.
How to Enjoy: Enjoy a half-cup serving of low-fat cottage cheese with a sprinkle of black pepper or fresh fruit for added flavor. It’s versatile enough to be paired with sweet or savory toppings.
7. Dark Chocolate
Why It’s Great: Craving something sweet? Dark chocolate can satisfy your sweet tooth while offering health benefits. It’s rich in antioxidants and contains less sugar than milk chocolate.
How to Enjoy: Choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content to maximize health benefits. Stick to a small serving (about 1 ounce) to keep calories in check.