03/17/2021
Healthy snacks can be beneficial to weight loss because they keep you full throughout the day and limit cravings. Read below for 9 healthy snacks!
1. Mixed Nuts
Full of essential nutrients, nuts contain a balance of healthy fats, protein and fiber and have been shown to prevent certain cancers, depression and other illness in several studies.
2. Bell Peppers + Guacamole
Bell peppers are high in antioxidants including beta carotene, capsanthin, and quercetin as well as vitamin C. In fact, one large red bell pepper contains over 300% of the daily value for vitamin C.
3. Greek Yogurt + Mixed Berries
Greek yogurt packs around 10g of protein per serving while mixed berries bring a variety of antioxidants to the table
4. Apple Slices + Nut Butter
Apples are full of fiber and polyphenol antioxidants that help improve gut health and reduce the risk of heart disease. Some nut butters, including peanut butter, have also been shown to increase HDL (good cholesterol) and reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) as well as triglycerides.
5. Kale Chips
Kale is packed full of fiber and antioxidants such as quercetin and kaempferol and is also high in vitamins A, C, and K. These important compounds decrease blood pressure and have even been linked to a reduced risk of colon cancer.
6. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate also has many health benefits, as it is loaded in flavanols that help to reduce blood pressure and reduce heart disease.
Pick out chocolate that contains 70% cocoa solids or higher for the most health benefits
7. Cucumber + Hummus Sandwiches
Cucumbers are high in water content and also contain cucurbitacin E, a compound that has been shown to reduce cancer. Hummus is usually made from chickpeas, olive oil, and garlic, along with added vegetables and herbs for flavor. This combination reduces inflammation and has been shown to improve heart health.
8. Caprese Skewers
Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant that has been shown to reduce risk of cancer and heart disease. In addition, mozzarella is high in protein, calcium and vitamin B12.
9. Hard Boiled Eggs
Hard boiled eggs are low calorie, pack plenty of protein and contain vitamins K2 and B12.