When your energy level drops or your hunger strikes, it may be time to strike back with a snack. But what if you are on a weight loss plan? Is snacking still possible in this case?
Fortunately, the answer is yes. This article will introduce to a number of snack hacks that support your weight loss.
To start off, you need to know that snacking between meals is not necessarily bad; on the contrary, studies show it can improve your focus, curb your hunger, and even help you stay in shape by keeping you from overeating later on.
However, conventional snack items such as cookies, chips, and granola bars are usually high in sugar and refined carbs while low in nutrients, so they can pack on the pounds without granting you the energy you require.
The key to smart snacking is to plan and focus on choices that include protein, fiber, and healthy fats which can help you stay fit and satisfied between meals.
Here are some healthy, weight-loss-friendly snack ideas to add to your diet.
Snack idea for weight loss #1: Hummus and Veggies
Ditch the vending machine and calm your tummy butterflies with a super hummus snack packed from home.
This Mediterranean spread made from pureed chickpeas, olive oil, and sesame has many impressive health benefits: the ingredients may help in ways such as fighting inflammation, controlling blood sugar, and reducing the risk for heart disease. Hummus is also a great source of protein and fiber, which can help you feel full faster, as per scientists.
Combine two tablespoons of hummus with fiber-rich vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, celery, or peppers, and enjoy a yummy flat-belly-friendly bite.
Snack idea for weight loss #2: Greek Yogurt Smoothie
Need a guilt-free indulgence?
Opt for a Greek yogurt fruit smoothie. Greek yogurt is high in protein and calcium, while also low in fat and calories, mixing it with fresh or frozen fruit which are rich in taste and nutritional value makes for a tasty – and healthful – snack.
One recipe recommended by food experts is to blend one-third of a cup of low or non-fat yogurt with two-thirds of a cup of blueberries and some crushed ice, then drink slowly and savor every sip – how refreshing!
Snack idea for weight loss #3: Apples with Peanut Butter
Fruit with any nut butter is considered a healthy snack, yet the combination of apples – peanut butter is a match made in heaven!
A medium apple provides twenty percent of your daily fiber intake, whereas peanuts contain the filling nutrients: healthy fat and plant-based protein.
Try not to exceed the hundred calorie mark, and do not spread more than two teaspoons of peanut butter. You can be creative and top with cinnamon to spice things up.
Keep in mind that many peanut butter brands contain added sugars and oils, therefore read the labels and pick a jar that contains peanuts and salt.
Snack idea for weight loss #4: Homemade Trail Mix
Nuts are an ideal snack, providing the perfect balance of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which also make them filling. and they are very filling and have several health benefits.
Almonds, for instance, help in regulating blood sugar, reducing blood pressure, and lowering cholesterol levels.
Make a trail mix that is delicious as well as nutritious by combining raw or dry-roasted nuts with dried fruit into a quarter of a cup.
Opt for fruits that contain no added sugar and mix and match, so try you can try dried apricots with almonds, dried raisins with peanuts, dried mangos with cashews, or mix them all up.
Snack idea for weight loss #5: Air-popped Popcorn
Have you been asking for a larger snack with a smaller calorie value?
Here is your answer.
Three heaped cups of air-popped popcorn have four grams of fiber and around four grams of protein for only about a hundred calories.
Nutritionists consider this a snack with long-lasting power that can help you stay full longer.
Sprinkle some thyme, cinnamon, sea salt, pepper or your spice of choice for an enhanced flavor.
Snack idea for weight loss #6: Kale Chips
No wonder kale is known as a super-food.
Not only is it loaded with fiber and antioxidants, but also it is a source of calcium and phosphorus.
Pairing kale with olive oil can generate a delicious, balanced, and fulfilling snack: kale chips.
Add a tablespoon of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt to a cup of kale leaves then bake for ten minutes until light brown, and get a hunger-squashing crispy bite!
Next time your cravings hit, have some healthy options in reach, listen to your body, and follow its signals of hunger and fullness.
Most importantly, do not hesitate to reach out for assistance.
At the Silhouette Clinic, we work closely with you to create a nutrition plan tailored to your individual needs and goals. We believe your overall health always comes first.