Healthy snacking may be the last thing on your mind when you come dragging through the door after a long day at work. Fortunately, there are plenty of quick and easy snack options that can help curb cravings, satisfy your hunger and leave you feeling energized.
1. Roasted Chickpeas
Roasted chickpeas easy to make; you toss them in olive oil and your choice of seasonings and roast them in a 400-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 45 minutes. This makes them a crunchy, addicting snack. Chickpeas are packed with plenty of protein, zinc and fiber, so they’re healthy and they fill you up.
2. Vegetables
Vegetables are always a fantastic healthy snack solution. Carrot and celery sticks are both favorite options. Vegetables are a great source of vitamins A and C, which can promote healthy skin, eyes, teeth and gums.
3. Nuts
Nuts are another source of protein, especially walnuts, pecans, peanuts and cashews. Keep in mind when purchasing nuts that you should opt for unsalted ones. Consuming nuts offers certain heart-related health benefits. You only need to consume about a quarter-cup to feel full, meaning you are not as likely to overeat.
4. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate has a low glycemic index, meaning you do not have to worry nearly as much about your sugar intake. Furthermore, dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and iron, meaning it is good for your mood and your blood.
5. Whole Grain Crackers
Whole grain crackers are rich in fiber, which satisfies your hunger. Fiber is also good for your digestive system. Doctors recommend diets that are high in fiber to help regulate your bowels.
6. Plain Yogurt
Plain yogurt may not be everybody’s favorite go-to snack option, but it is far healthier than yogurts packed with sugar. For best results, combine a cup of Greek yogurt with your favorite fruit, granola and flax seed.
7. Hard-Boiled Egg
Not only are hard-boiled eggs easy to make, they are healthy, too! An egg contains approximately 70 calories. Fortunately, this low calorie snack option contains plenty of protein to keep you feeling energized.
8. Cottage Cheese
Look for low-fat cottage cheese in snack-size containers next time you visit the grocery store, Cottage cheese is a great source of vitamin D and calcium, which is good for bone density, teeth and hair.
9. Cucumber Sandwiches
If you are a fan of sandwiches, you need cucumber sandwiches in your life. Cucumber contains plenty of water, which helps you ward off dehydration. Because it hydrates your system, cucumber can help rid your body of toxins. Add tomato, goat cheese and spinach between two slices of cucumber for a quick, easy and healthy go-to snack.
10. Mozzarella Caprese
Salad is often a great healthy food option, but often times, people drown their salad with fattening dressings. Fortunately, mozzarella caprese is a great alternative. The Mediterranean-inspired snack is rich in vitamins, minerals and calcium. Simply combine slices of tomato, slices of fresh mozzarella, fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil for a wonderfully healthy snack.
11. Edamame
To the Japanese, edamame is a soybean that is both green and sweet. These sweet little beans can be eaten whether hot or called and often taste best when sprinkled with a little bit of sea salt. If served cold, Edamame offers a nice crunch that makes it an enjoyable snack.
12. Sweet Potato Fries
As another healthy snack option, consider replacing traditional French fries with sweet potato fries. Overall, sweet potatoes have more protein, vitamins and minerals than white potatoes. Consider drizzling your sweet potato fries with a little bit of virgin olive oil and baking them rather than frying them.
13. Homemade Smoothies
Forget premade smoothies, which are often loaded with sugar, and reach for your blender instead. You can make healthy smoothies, which provide a solid source of calcium, in a jiffy by combining low-fat or nonfat milk with fresh fruit and a touch of honey if you like.
14. Popcorn
Believe it or not, popcorn makes a healthy snack, but not if you purchase it already made from the store. Instead, make your own popcorn. Start with the kernels and toss with a little bit of sea salt and extra virgin olive oil rather than butter to help lower your fat intake.
15. Berries
Berries are rich in antioxidants and iron. Make sure you choose the right berries, however, such as raspberries, blueberries and even cranberries. Place the berries in your freezer for a snack that is both cool and sweet.
Stop denying the importance of your health and start treating your body better with any of the quick and easy health food snack options above.
