The 10 Best Snacks To Satisfy Your Cravings
Sweet Cravings:
- Fruit: Nature’s candy! Fresh fruits like berries, apples, or pears are packed with sweetness, fiber, and vitamins.
- Frozen Yogurt: Opt for plain frozen yogurt and top it with fresh fruit and a sprinkle of granola for a satisfying and healthy treat.
- Dark Chocolate: A small square (around an ounce) of dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa) can satisfy a sweet tooth and provides some antioxidants.
- Fruit and Nut Butter: A classic combo! Pair apple slices, banana slices, or pear slices with almond butter, peanut butter, or another nut butter for a mix of sweetness, protein, and healthy fats.
- Greek yogurt with berries and a drizzle of honey: This combines the protein of Greek yogurt with the sweetness and fiber of berries and a touch of honey for a balanced snack.
Salty Cravings:
- Edamame: These little green pods are packed with protein and fiber, and they’re naturally salty.
- Roasted Chickpeas: These crunchy and flavorful snacks are a healthy alternative to chips. You can roast them yourself with your favorite spices, or buy them pre-seasoned.
- Air-Popped Popcorn: Popcorn is a whole grain that’s low in calories and high in fiber. Add a little olive oil and your favorite seasonings for a healthy and satisfying snack.
- Trail Mix: Make your own trail mix with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit for a satisfying mix of salty, sweet, and crunchy. Opt for raw or dry-roasted nuts and unsweetened dried fruit for a healthier option.
- Rice cakes with hummus or guacamole: Rice cakes provide a satisfying crunch, while hummus and guacamole add protein and healthy fats.
Craving Something Crunchy:
- Carrot sticks with hummus: This classic combo provides a satisfying mix of crunch and creaminess.
- Apple slices with cheese: Cheese adds protein and a creamy element to the crunch of apple slices.
- Bell pepper slices with guacamole: Bell peppers offer a satisfying crunch with a mild sweetness, while guacamole adds healthy fats and creaminess.
- Raw vegetables with a yogurt dip: Pair baby carrots, cucumber slices, or sugar snap peas with a plain yogurt dip flavored with herbs or spices for a healthy and crunchy snack.
- Homemade veggie chips: Slice sweet potatoes, zucchini, or beets thinly and bake them with a little olive oil and your favorite seasonings for a healthy alternative to potato chips.
General Tips:
- Portion Control: Even healthy snacks can be overeaten. Aim for a serving size that will satisfy your craving without going overboard.
- Mindful Eating: Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues. Eat slowly and savor your snack to help prevent overeating.
- Planning: Having healthy snacks on hand can help you avoid unhealthy choices when cravings hit. Prep some fruits and vegetables in advance, portion out nuts and seeds, or make a batch of roasted chickpeas to have on hand.
Remember, the best snack is the one that satisfies your craving and fits into your overall healthy diet.