Snacking is an excellent method of maintaining stamina and avoiding hunger pangs. However, if you're on a diet or just trying to eat healthier overall, you should pick snacks that are low in calories. The latter has proven its effectiveness in reducing overall calorie intake without feeling deprived. These munchies are more likely to satisfy your hunger and provide nutrients, so they're a great weight-loss choice. Snacks can also help keep your energy levels stable throughout the day. The key is to opt for snacks high in protein, vitamins, minerals and fibre will keep blood sugar levels steady and prevent spikes that could lead to cravings later in the day. Such choices keep one feeling full longer than those that don't offer much nutritional value (such as empty calories). Some examples include nuts/seeds/dried fruit combos; whole-grain crackers with hummus; whole wheat pita bread filled with veggies like cucumbers or tomatoes; cottage cheese mixed with berries. They are minimal in fat and calories, which makes them more filling than other types of food that contain more carbohydrates or fat (like cookies).
Baked apple chips
If you are bored of eating fresh apples, consider making baked apple chips. They are tasty, wholesome and can be made as a low-calorie snack. All you need is some fresh apples of your choice and cinnamon. To make this interesting dish, slice the apples thinly and toss with cinnamon. Bake at 200 degrees for around two hours or until crisp. Approximately 1/4 cup of such baked apple chips has 60 calories.
Roasted nuts
Roasted nuts are a tasty, low-calorie snack that you can make at home. The ingredients are simple: raw nuts, olive or coconut oil, salt and pepper. The cooking process is also straightforward. Oven-roast them for 10 to 15 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until golden brown. The nutritional amount alters depending on the type of nut you use and how much oil you add while roasting them (if any). For example, one serving (about 1/4 cup) of roasted peanuts contains 160 calories and 12 grams of fat- about half as much fat as you'd get from eating an equivalent amount of potato chips!
Roasted seeds
Roasted seeds are a great snack for the health-conscious. They're high in protein and fibre, so they'll keep you satiated for extended periods. Plus, they're easy to make at home! Gather 1/4 cup of raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas) or sunflower seeds, 1/2 teaspoon of virgin coconut oil, and salt and pepper to taste. You can skip the oil too. In a skillet, dry roast the seeds on low flame until they turn golden brown. Season them with salt, pepper and any dry herb of your choice.
Hard-boiled eggs
Boiled eggs on a toast, Image source: Pexels
The convenience and accessibility of hard-boiled eggs make them a handy pantry staple. Hard-boiled eggs are one of the best sources of protein on their own. Besides snacking them as is, you may include them in other dishes, such as a salad or a sandwich. One hard-boiled poultry egg has 72 calories, 5 g fat (4 g saturated fat), and 6-gram protein.
Roasted garbanzo beans
Any dietician and nutritionist vouch for the health benefits of snacking on roasted garbanzo beans. These beans are loaded with protein and high in fibre. While one can buy them from the market, a healthier option is making them at home. A quick recipe calls for 1 cup of dried garbanzo beans (also called chickpeas), 2 teaspoons olive oil, and 1/4 teaspoon pink salt (optional). Rinse and soak the chickpeas overnight. Set oven temperature to 400 degrees F. The chickpeas should be drained of their extra water and spread out on a baking pan. Add the oil. Toss to evenly coat the ingredients. Spread the beans out in a single layer, sprinkle with salt (if using), and bake so they don't steam each other. To make them crispy and golden, bake them for 20 minutes.
Conclusion
Low-calorie snacking is a great way to keep your metabolism going and prevent hunger pangs. It can also help you shed extra pounds if you choose the right snacks. The key is to ensure you eat only a few calories and enough protein at every meal and snack. If you follow these guidelines, low-calorie snacking will benefit your health and waistline!