Snacks are an important part of a weight-loss or weight-maintenance goal, as long as you choose healthy snacks. Snacks perform the necessary function of preventing you from becoming too hungry in between meals, which can result in overeating later. Choose portioned snacks that provide nutrients to keep your body sustained and satisfied. MayoClinic.com recommends snacks that are around 100 calories, or 200 calories if you need something more substantial.
Step 1
Make homemade trail mix. Mix together dried fruit and a variety of nuts and seeds, like pumpkin seeds, almonds, walnuts and sunflower seeds. The combination will provide your body with vitamins, minerals, fiber, essential fats and protein. Eat trail mix in moderation, however, as nuts are high in calories.
Step 2
Create simple snacks from whole grains. Put a tablespoon of peanut or almond butter on one slice of toast or half a bagel. Have a few whole-grain crackers with low-fat cheese or peanut butter, but put the cracker package away after taking out the recommended serving size. By using whole grains, you will have longer-lasting energy than if you eat refined grains, such as foods made with white flour.
Step 3
Prepare fruits and vegetables ahead of time. Peel and cut them, and store them in the fridge. This way, when you are hungry for a snack, the healthy fruits and vegetables will be ready to eat and you won't reach for pre-packaged snacks instead. Creating salads with a variety of fruits or vegetables makes the snack more interesting and also provides more nutrients. Many vegetables have very few calories, so they won't throw off your diet. If you add peanut butter or ranch dressing, they will keep you feeling full longer. Fruit contains sugar, so pair it with crackers or nuts to sustain the energy.
Step 4
Make filling snacks from low-fat dairy products. Create a yogurt parfait by mixing vanilla yogurt with fresh fruit and granola. Slice low-fat cheese and pair it with whole-grain crackers or pieces of fruit. Add nuts or granola to low-fat pudding.
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