Skipping snacks is not the best way to lose weight. The Mayo Clinic asserts that arming yourself with healthful, planned snacks can help you squelch a rumbling tummy and carry you through to your next meal. Omitting them can cause you to give in and eat something you will later regret. Low-calorie munchies can be simple to make and delicious to eat when you know what to include.
Stock Up on Fruits and Vegetables
The bottom line for weight loss is consuming fewer calories than you use each day. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, choosing fruits and veggies lets you snack without depleting your caloric allowance. Slice up an apple or chew on celery when you are craving crunch. A medium banana, a cup of juicy grapes or 2 cups of baby carrots silence a sweet tooth for 100 calories or less.
Pack Some Protein
Protein builds muscle, which in turn burns more calories even when you are at rest. In addition, protein helps you feel full longer. Many high protein foods are snack-worthy. For instance, the Mayo Clinic suggests munching a handful of nuts or seeds for a satisfying snack. Other low calorie options include edamame, a hard boiled egg or smoked salmon. Protein bars can make good snacks, but be sure to read the label first, as many are high in calories and sugar.
Satisfying Whole Grains
The carbohydrates in whole grain foods provide energy to help you get over that afternoon slump without reaching for a chocolate bar. Its fiber will satiate you and tide you over until mealtime. The Wheat Foods Council suggests noshing on toasted whole wheat bread topped with low calorie jelly, whole grain crackers or pretzels and even a cup of your favorite dry cereal for a crunchy, sweet, satisfying snack.
Create a Combo
Combining low calorie choices from a couple or all of these categories will give you the benefits of each of them and make for some scrumptious snack options. Toast whole grain bread, spread on a spoonful of peanut butter and top it with banana slices. Layer yogurt with fresh berries and sprinkle with chopped nuts for a light and tasty parfait. Dip crudites into hummus or spread tuna mixed with chopped apples on whole grain crackers. You will shed pounds and your taste buds never suspect you are eating low calorie foods.
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