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Snacks have a crucial role in our everyday routines, and maintaining a balanced diet can be aided by smart picks. People often associate snacking with unhealthy calorie, sugar, and fat intake irrespective of what you eat. If you eat snacks frequently which are low in nutrients, and high in added sugar, you may notice an increase in appetite and cravings. It may be challenging to maintain a good diet in this case.
But the good news is that you can have healthy snacks too. In between meals, they can help to curb cravings and supply vital nutrients. To stay energised and full, it's important to choose foods that are high in fibre, protein, and good fats. It can also help you lose weight while simultaneously improving your overall health without making you consume too many calories. Below are some healthy munchies options and essential tips discussed for you to make at home.
Trail Mix
This mix is the most customisable snack, ideal balance of complex carbohydrates, good fats, and protein. It is prepared by mixing dried fruits, nuts, and seeds. Long-lasting energy is provided by the protein and healthy fats in nuts (walnuts, pistachio or almonds), while natural sweetness and fibre are added by dried fruits (berries or raisins). Sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds together bring additional nutritional benefits which contain zinc and magnesium. Select unsalted nuts for a healthier option, and don't buy trail mixes that contain chocolate or additional sweeteners.
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Hummus With Veggies
Hummus provides a surprising nutritional profile by combining complex carbs, plant-based protein, and healthy fats in a single spread. It is made with chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice and garlic. Serve it with crisp vegetables like bell peppers, cucumber slices, carrot sticks, or cherry tomatoes by lightly sauteing or baking them for extra vitamins and minerals. You can experiment with flavours of hummus like herbs or roasted red pepper can be added.
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Greek Yogurt With Toppings
The high protein level, creamy texture, and probiotics content that promote gut health have made Greek yoghurt a healthy option. It is strained, which gives it a thicker consistency and more concentrated nutrients than plain yoghurt. People seeking healthy snack options that satisfy their hunger should consider this. Select plain Greek yoghurt to avoid added sugars, and for natural sweetness, sprinkle it with granola, fresh berries (raspberries, strawberries or blueberries), or honey.
Image Credit: Freepik
Apple Slices With Peanut Butter
The combination of apple slices and peanut butter makes a snack that is well-balanced and meets several dietary requirements at once. To make this lightly spread peanut butter on apple slices. The nut butter offers plant-based protein and healthy fats, while apples are high in fibre, which helps with digestion and prolongs feelings of fullness. For optimal health benefits, use homemade peanut butter free of hydrogenated oils and added sugars.
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Nut Butter & Banana
Bananas are a great source of potassium and simple carbohydrates that give you energy right away. To make this fruit more balanced and satisfying, pair them with nut butter like peanut or almond butter, which add protein and heart-healthy lipids. This snack is perfect for pre or post-workout food since it promotes muscle repair and replenishes energy stores.
Cottage Cheese & Fruits
Cottage cheese is a great option for people who want to feel full between meals without overindulging because it is low in calories and high in protein. Fresh fruits like pineapple, watermelon, or berries can be added to it for natural sweetness as well as vitamins and antioxidants. You can enjoy this snack savoury by putting herbs or black pepper on top, or sweet by adding honey.
