When you feel like indulging or reaching for a delicious treat without hindering your efforts and endangering your waistline, there are plenty of snacks that are healthy and can still satisfy your cravings.
10 healthy alternatives to snack on when those craving hit
Here are 10 healthy alternatives to snack on when those craving hit and you feel tempted to indulge.
1. Popcorn
If prepared properly, popcorn can be a healthy and delicious snack without the added guilt. Pop some fresh kernels in a hot,non-stick pot and you will get some delicious, air-popped popcorn sans the unnecessary butter. Then, season your popcorn with some salt and enjoy a crunchy snack that is so easy and low in fat.
2. Kale Chips
Loaded with antioxidants, kale chips are a delicious alternative to potato chips. Bake with a light coat of olive oil to transform kale into chips.
3. Chia Seed Pudding
Despite their tiny size, chia seeds pack a punch and are one of the most nutrient rich plant-based foods. They’re loaded with fiber, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and are a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. Chia seeds can assist in reducing inflammation and improving heart health. A chia seed pudding makes for a satisfying and healthy snack, but the seeds have a bland taste, so you can add chia seeds to anything without altering the taste.
Chia Seed Pudding Ingredients:
- 1 ½ Tbsp chia seeds.
- 1 Tbsp cocoa powder.
- 1 ½ cups coconut milk
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup
Directions: Combine ingredients and whisk in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
4. Celery with hummus
Celery and hummus are both very nutritious and pair well together, making a scrumptious snack combo. Hummus is made from chickpeas, olive oil and garlic, all of which are full of nutrients and minerals. Celery is fat-free and has high amounts of fibre, magnesium, calcium and vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and flavonoids.
5. Edamame
Edamame consists of unripened soybeans that are either boiled or steamed. Edamame is rich in the flavonol kaempferol, an antioxidant which has been shown to lower weight, blood sugar and even reduce the risk of cancer in research carried out on animals. A low-calorie treat that’s easy to prepare, Edamame is also an excellent source of protein and iron, one cup of edamame has around 17 grams of protein and 189 calories.
6. Carrot Slices
Perfect for when you’re craving a good crunch, carrots provide the best source of carotenoids, including beta-carotene which becomes vitamin A. These carotenoids found in carrots may reduce your risk of cancer, heart disease and eye disease.
7. Almonds
Almonds boast impressive health benefits, high in monounsaturated fat and have beneficial effects on blood sugar control. Studies also show that they can reduce appetite and help you lose weight.
8. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate, especially those that contain at least 70% cocoa solids, is rich in polyphenols that have numerous health benefits including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
9. Walnuts
Dense in nutrients, good fats, phytochemicals and fiber, walnuts deliver plenty of health benefits and have a higher antioxidant profile than any other nut. Walnuts are easy to snack on, but be mindful while munching on them – they are high in calories.
10. Protein Bars and Snacks
Protein is a macronutrient and an important building block of every cell in the body.
Protein bars and other snacks are convenient, filling, and a delicious way to boost your protein levels.
Check the nutritional information to avoid protein snacks with added sugar and fat. For a massive selection of protein snacks from the best brands, visit
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