Snacks are great… but is it possible to lose weight while not giving up on them?
Count on us on this one, here are 10 healthy snacks that can help you lose weight and quell cravings:
1. MIXED NUTS
Nuts are packed with nutrients, protein, good fats and antioxidants. Because it is known that nuts contain fats, many people avoid eating them, fearing they will gain weight. But, studies have shown that eating nuts regularly is not associated with weight gain, on the contrary, they help prevent it!
Moreover, studies say that nuts help reduce the risk of heart diseases and may also help prevent certain types of cancers.
2. GREEK YOGURT
If you want to lose weight in an effective way, you should consider adding Greek yogurt in your diet. In addition to being a great source of Calcium and Potassium, Greek yogurt is also high in protein. You can buy the plain type and, to bump up de nutrition, add some fresh fruit to it.
Don’t forget that even if all the calories come from healthy sources, eating more than your body requires will make you gain weight.
3. APPLE SLICES
You probably already heard that ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away!’, but did you know that apples are one of the top fruits for sustained weight loss?
Let’s see why: apples are high in weight-loss-friendly fiber and poly-phenol antioxidants, that improve gut health and may reduce the risk of heart disease. They also have a low glycemic index. Low glycemic foods are known to be better than high glycemic foods, that make your blood sugar spike quickly, resulting in hunger and decreased energy.
4. PEANUT BUTTER
When trying to lose weight, peanut butter might be your best friend. It is a great source of polysaturated and monosatured fatty acids, making you feel satiated for a longer time. Peanut butter also raises the good cholesterol (HDL cholesterol) in your body, reduces triglycerides, and is a great source of protein.
How to select the best peanut butter? When choosing a peanut butter brand, try to avoid anything that has listed more than just peanuts (for example: salt, sugars and hydrogenated oil)!
5. KALE CHIPS
Kale is considered a super food! It is rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals and low on calories. In weight equivalent, it contains more iron than a steak and more calcium than milk!
You can eat raw or cooked kale — you can bake it with black pepper and garlic, as a substitute for potato chips. It decreases blood pressure and may even reduce the risk of colon cancer.
6.DARK CHOCOLATE + ALMONDS
Dark chocolate is loaded with flavanols that may lower blood pressure and reduce heart disease risk, provided the chocolate contains at least 70% cocoa. The flavonoids in dark chocolate help reduce insulin resistance and prevent blood-sugar spikes — basically discouraging you from eating more than necessary.
Almonds are high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fat and have beneficial effects on blood sugar control. They are packed with protein and filled with fiber.
7. CUCUMBER SLICES WITH HUMMUS
Hummus is a traditional Mediterranean dish made from chickpeas, olive oil and garlic. It has many benefits, such as reducing inflammation and improving heart health. Furthermore, it will help you feel fuller faster, as it provides a good source of protein and fiber.
Hummus and cucumbers are a great, healthy combination for weight loss! Cucumbers are naturally low in calories, high in many important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, Magnesium, Potassium and rich in beneficial antioxidants.
8. A PIECE OF FRUIT
Healthy snacks don’t need to be complicated. Just a single piece of fruit can be incredibly satisfying! Here are a few of the best fruits to eat for weight loss: grapefruit, apple, kiwi, watermelon, avocado, raspberries.
9. CHIA SEED PUDDING
Chia seeds pack a lot of nutrition in a small package. They are loaded with fiber and can be included in all types of diets, including vegan and ketogenic diets. They are also gluten-free, making them a popular protein choice for people with celiac disease.
You can eat chia seeds in many ways — raw, soaked, toasted or cooked.
Did you know that Chia seeds make a great egg substitute in baking? Combine three tablespoons of water with one tablespoon of ground chia seeds to replace one egg!
10.BOILED EGGS
Eggs are one of the healthiest and most weight-loss-friendly foods you can eat.
They are rich with healthy fats, quality protein and a lot of minerals and vitamins. Very nutrient dense and with a high protein content, eggs will get you a filling sensation after eating.
It is recommended to eat eggs for breakfast, because it will make you feel more satiated, therefore you will consume less calories during the day.
