Whilst attempting to lose weight, snacking on calorific sugary goods can completely hinder your efforts. However, it is easier said than done to completely cut out snacking which is why we have suggested some healthy alternatives to sugary and salty snacks. Firstly, try drinking some water as often hunger can be mistaken for thirst. If you still find that you are reaching for something to munch on, use these snack times as opportunities to increase nutrition and energy into your daily intake.
Unhealthy snacks are too easy and accessible to grab which is why the following recommended foods require virtually no effort to prepare so no excuses allowed.
Sweet Snack Suggestions:
Frozen grapes – Frozen grapes are an ideal healthy sweet snack. They are super tasty and can relieve those sweet cravings whilst also contributing to your five a day. As a great source of vitamin C, vitamin A and potassium and with only 104 calories for one cup worth, grapes are a perfect option to munch on. And the best bit about it; they are so easy to prepare – place them on a tray in the freezer for 4-5 hours and they are ready to eat.
Frozen yogurt – By freezing yogurts, they provide a similar sensation to ice-cream minus the high fat and high calorie content. You can freeze pretty much any type of yogurt so when you get home from the supermarket just place your low fat yogurts straight into the freezer. Furthermore, due to the fact that they are frozen they take longer to consume so you’ll be fuller when finishing, limiting the possibilities of reaching for another one.
Bowl of cereal – If you fancy a more filling type of sweet snack, cereal is a great source of energy and provides high levels of fibre as well as essential vitamins. Furthermore, cereal also promotes the consumption of milk which is a great source of calcium. With so much variety of cereals you can never get bored and you won’t be left feeling hungry afterwards.
Note: Adding Manuka Honey to any of these sweet suggestions not only adds sweetness and flavour as well as a syrupy satisfying texture, but also so many amazing health benefits. It is has antibacterial and antiviral qualities as well as being an antioxidant which aids the immune system. Don’t mind if we do.
Savoury Snack Suggestions:
Mixed nuts – A great option if you are on a low-carbohydrate diet; however they are high in calories so portion control is key. Different nuts have different nutritional values, so a mixture offers a variety of benefits. For example, Almonds are rich in vitamin E, whereas hazelnuts are high in fibre and vitamin B and pecans can help reduce cholesterol. Grab a small burst of nutrition as well as a delicious savoury snack.
Popcorn – Plain popcorn is a low calorie snack that has recently been found to contain high levels of concentrated antioxidants. Plain popcorn provides a guilt free alternative to the variety covered in sugar or salt, whilst maintaining the illusion that you are not actually restricting yourself from every kind of nice treat.
Celery and humus – If you love dipping snacks then celery and humus are the perfect combinations to relieve this crave. The health benefits of celery are never-ending, at only 10 calories per large stalk, an extremely low calorie option that helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as relieving inflammation and stress! What doesn’t celery do? And as for humus, it is high in protein and fibre and can help maintain correct blood sugar levels due to the chickpea content.
Note: adding spice to savoury snacks can add extra flavour as well as helping to boost your metabolism.
So instead of reaching for a packet of crisps or grabbing some chocolate bars, fill your cupboards and freezers full of these suggestions so that they are easily accessible. Provide your body with the nutrition it requires and experience the physical and mental benefits.