When you are trying to lose weight, you might think you have to say goodbye to snacks. You will be glad to learn there are many healthy snacks you can eat and still lose weight and feel great.
If you feel like you are being deprived, it will be difficult to succeed on any weight loss plan. You can eat healthy snacks and still lose weight.
In your change to healthy snacks, it is best to start by having a clean slate. Clean out your refrigerator and pantry and purge all non-healthy foods. This will accomplish two things:
- You will remove any temptation when you are having a weak moment.
- You will be able to make better choices, for yourself, and the rest of your family as well.
What types of snacks can you eat that won’t derail your diet?
There are a variety of choices available:
1. Fresh fruits and vegetables. Your healthiest snacks are going to be those that are as close to nature as possible. This means keeping fresh fruits and vegetables on hand.
- Take advantage of buying those fruits that will provide you with the sweetness and the crunch you crave.
- Buying fruits that are in season will be cheaper.
- Apples, grapes, oranges, and other fruits are important for a healthy diet even if you are not trying to lose weight. Avocados are another great choice.
2. Dried fruit can be a great snacking option for those trying to lose weight. Raisins, Craisins (dried cranberries), and other dried fruits will give you the feeling of eating something forbidden and yet they can be enjoyed in moderation.
- As with any food, if you do not limit the portions, you can ruin any attempt at dieting.
3. Potato chip alternatives. Is one of your weaknesses potato chips? If so, there is a healthy alternative that is easy, convenient, and will give you a satisfying crunch.
Wash and cut up the vegetables into handy snack sizes so they will be easy to grab when you want a quick snack:
- Baby carrots or carrot sticks
- Celery sticks
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cucumber
- Cherry or grape tomatoes
Sometimes crunchy vegetables will not meet your needs when you are craving chips! You may crave the salt and the crusty crunch that celery sticks just will not satisfy.
- Whole wheat pretzels might do the trick.
- Dip your pretzel in peanut butter for additional taste and to bolster your metabolism.
4. Nuts and seeds are additional healthy snacks you can eat when you are trying to lose weight. They are full of nutrients your body needs and can be great choices.
- Be careful when eating nuts and seeds, however, as they are high in fat content. Eating too many could blow your diet for the day.
5. Popcorn can be a great snack for someone trying to lose weight. Rather than adding butter or other high calorie toppings, try to eat light popcorn or air popped popcorn.
Choosing healthy snacks rather than those loaded with fat and calories will make losing weight much easier. When you feel like you need a snack, it is important not to deprive yourself.
Choose wisely and you will feel great and still lose weight!
