The laws governing the universe do not mandate that healthy snacks should taste bland and boring. In fact, nature seems to take delight in providing us with a wide assortment of healthy fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds to satisfy our urge to nosh. If you are willing to experiment, you will discover a new world of tastes and textures.
Fruit Cups and Canned Fruit
Unsweetened applesauce, fruit cups and canned fruit provide fiber, vitamins and minerals and satisfy the sweet tooth. Fruit generally has little or no fat and is low in sodium.
Whole-Grain Breakfast Cereals
Whole-grain breakfast cereal -- with or without milk -- make a vitamin- and fiber-rich treat. A variety of textures, ranging from soft and mushy to crunchy and chewy, are possible. Add a little trail mix or some of your favorite fruit to make the cereal taste even better.
Air-Popped Popcorn
Air-popped popcorn is is a tasty low-calorie, low-fat treat. Add more flavor by lightly spraying the popped kernels with butter-flavored cooking spray and adding your favorite dry seasoning.
Whole-Grain Granola Bars
Select low-fat, low-calorie, whole-grain granola bars. The crunchy, chewy, sweet and salty taste of granola bars satisfy candy bar cravings while providing some nutrition as well.
Low-fat Plain Yogurt
Low-fat, plain yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, vitamin D, protein and B vitamins. Add fresh sliced fruit or no-sugar-added canned fruit to spruce up the taste of plain yogurt.
Dried Fruit
Check out ethnic supermarkets for a wide assortment of exotic dried fruits. These products are chewy, naturally sweet, nutrient-rich and delicious. Eat some dried -- not fried -- banana or plantain chips to satisfy your craving for a crunchy snack.
Raw Vegetables
Raw vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, celery, broccoli or cherry tomatoes make satisfying snack foods, especially if you dip them in your favorite low-fat dressing or dip.
Frozen Fruit Juice Pops
Purchase or make your own pure fruit juice, no-added-sugar pops. Experiment with different types of juice. Add bits of fresh or no-sugar-added canned fruit to your pops for an even healthier treat.
Nut Butter on Whole Wheat Sandwich
Add banana slices and a thin layer of low-sugar peanut butter to a couple of slices of whole-grain wheat bread. Try one of the alternative nut butter products such as cashew, almond, hazelnut or cashew butter.
Fruit Smoothies
There is no end to the ingredients you can combine to make fruit smoothies. Try recipes for apple, banana, watermelon, or chocolate smoothies. Try adding a little cooked oatmeal or banana to replace milk in your favorite smoothie recipe.
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