Snacking occurs when you consume foods other than your major meals during the day. Snacks are typically limited portions of food consumed in between meals.
While the evidence on whether snacking aids weight reduction is mixed, some studies suggest that snacking can help regulate appetite and improve blood sugar regulation.
Snacking can also help you eat more nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits and vegetables, which most people don’t get enough of.
Snacks strong in protein, fibre, and healthy fats are ideal since they can help you feel filled for longer and make better choices at your next meal.
While no one snack will trigger weight loss, when paired with a healthy eating plan, these snacks can help.
Here are three nutritious weight-loss snacks to include in your diet.
1. Greek yoghurt and berries
Using basic Greek yoghurt and berries, you can make a delicious, nutrient-dense snack.
Greek yoghurt is high in protein, and berries are one of the best sources of antioxidants.
Mix a range of different coloured berries into your yoghurt to get a variety of nutrients and a balance of sweet and sour flavours.
2. Apple slices and peanut butter
Apples and peanut butter are a health and culinary combo made in heaven.
On the one side, apples are high-fibre fruit. Peanuts, on the other hand, are abundant in healthy fats, plant-based protein, and fibre — pretty much all a snack should be.
You’ll get a crunchy and creamy snack by combining apples and peanut butter. To add even more flavour, sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon on top is a good idea.
It’s worth noting that a lot of store-bought peanut butter have extra sugars and oils. Look for one that only has peanuts and salt on the ingredient list.
3. Cucumber with hummus
Cucumber’s crisp texture and fresh flavour complement hummus’ creamy creaminess.
Chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and garlic are common ingredients in hummus. As a result, it has a good balance of plant-based protein, fibre, and heart-healthy fats.
1 cup (104 grammes) sliced cucumbers dipped in 2 tablespoons (34 grammes) hummus will help you stay full for less than 100 calories.
For a heartier snack, try them with whole-grain crackers or pretzel sticks.