Snacks are a part of our daily routine, and who doesn’t enjoy snacking? However, with so many options available in grocery stores, how do you pick healthy snacks that can help keep your body in great shape?
The key to picking healthy snacks lies in the right balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Combining these nutrients makes you feel fuller and more satisfied, preventing you from feeling hungry soon after. Whole foods like fruits and vegetables are bonus points because they are healthy sources of vitamins and nutrients that cancel out the effect of low-quality snacks.
Fruits and nuts together make an excellent snack because fruits contain fibers, especially if you eat their skins, while nuts contain protein and healthy fat. This combination of healthy nutrients can help satisfy your appetite and maintain a steady blood sugar level. Popcorn is also a great fiber, B vitamins, and iron source. You can make it sweet or savory, depending on your crave flavor. Be careful with toppings because an excess of butter, salt, or caramel could quickly turn it into an unhealthy snack.
Chickpeas are a versatile and affordable pantry staple you can roast for crunchiness, make them sweet or savory, or blend into dips like hummus. They can also make your veggie salads more delicious. Kale, sweet potatoes, and beets are excellent sources of fiber, B vitamins, vitamin C, and potassium that can help your veggie intake.
Some veggie chips make a great snack, but you must check the labels to ensure they are lower in fat and sodium and have veggies as the first ingredient. Walnuts are a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are difficult for vegetarians and vegans to obtain. They might even help lower your depression risk and enhance your mood. You can add some dried fruit or dark chocolate if you crave something sweet.
Cottage cheese is another underrated snack that packs a protein punch and is an excellent source of calcium, B vitamins, and selenium. Energy and granola bars are typical snacks, but not all are healthy. Ensure they contain protein, healthy fats, whole grains for fiber, and sugar below 5 grams, and avoid chocolate-covered ones.
Greek yogurt is a breakfast food and a snack that can make you feel full while supporting your bone health. You can add fresh or dried fruit as a sweetener or blend in herbs and spices for a savory dip.
Popsicles made of 100% fruit juice are an excellent and fun alternative to unhealthy snacks, and you can make them yourself to suit your taste buds. Chia seeds and chia pudding contain protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it an ideal snack. You can top it off with whatever you fancy, such as maple syrup, nuts, dried fruits, fresh fruits, or spices.
In Conclusion, a healthy snack should contain protein, fiber, and healthy fats, with low added sugar and salt. Be conscious of the snacks you choose and make it a fun experience. Remember, happy snacking!
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Source Description
So many snacks are labeled “healthy” at the grocery store that it can get confusing to decipher which ones are. In this video, registered dietitian Jessica Ball breaks down what to look for when choosing healthy snacks – from the best nutrients on the label to the top ten foods that check every box. One by one, she explains what makes these snacks so healthy and why the combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber is so good for you.
Read the article here: https://www.eatingwell.com/article/7891453/best-healthy-snacks-according-to-dietitians/
#Snack #Food #Nutrition #Health #Dietitian #EatingWell
0:00 Introduction
0:12 What Makes a Snack Healthy?
0:29 Fruits & Nuts
0:44 Popcorn
1:02 Chickpeas
1:20 Veggie Chips
1:42 Walnuts
1:59 Cottage Cheese
2:18 Energy Bars
2:38 Greek Yogurt
2:58 Popsicles
3:22 Chia Seeds
3:47 Conclusion
An EatingWell registered dietitian answers the internet’s burning questions about the hottest topics in nutrition, diet, and health.
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10 Best Healthy Snacks, According to a Dietitian | Dietitian Q&A | EatingWell
