When the weather turns cold and the leaves start to change color, it can be easy to give up on healthy eating habits. However, you don’t have to give in to your cravings for unhealthy snacks. With a little planning, you can satisfy your hunger without derailing your diet. Here are eight healthy snacks that will help you stay on track this fall:
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds:
Roasted pumpkin seeds are a delicious and healthy snack that can help you satisfy your cravings without making you feel guilty. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of fiber and protein, which will help you feel full and satisfied. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and zinc. Roasting the seeds brings out their natural flavor and gives them a crispy texture that makes them all the more irresistible. Whether you enjoy them on their own or sprinkled over a salad or a bowl of yogurt, roasted pumpkin seeds are a great way to fuel your body and satisfy your taste buds.
Dried fruits:
Fall is the perfect time to stock up on dried fruit. With their sweet flavor and chewy texture, they make a delicious and healthy snack that can help satisfy your cravings without making you feel guilty. Dried fruits are rich in nutrients and fiber, and they contain no added sugar or preservatives. Plus, they’re easy to store and transport, so you can take them with you anywhere. Whether you’re looking for a mid-morning snack or an afternoon pick-me-up, grab a handful of dried fruit instead of unhealthy junk food.
Popcorn :
Popcorn is the perfect snack to satisfy those cravings without feeling guilty. Unlike many other snacks, popcorn is relatively low in calories and fat. It is also a whole grain, which means it contains essential nutrients like fiber and protein. Plus, popcorn is a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage. So if you’re looking for a snack that satisfies your cravings without derailing your diet, whip up a bowl of popcorn.
Whole grain crackers:
Whole grain crackers are the perfect way to satisfy your cravings without gaining weight. Made from whole wheat flour, oats and other healthy ingredients, they provide fiber and complex carbohydrates that will give you long-lasting energy. And since they’re baked rather than fried, they’re a healthier option than many other snacks.
Cheese :
Cheese is packed with protein and calcium, which are essential for strong bones and muscles. It also contains conjugated linoleic acid, a type of fat that has been shown to aid weight loss. Plus, cheese is a great source of “friendly” bacteria that can help improve gut health. As soon as a craving catches up with you, resort to cheese!
Greek yogurt:
Snacking is one of the hardest things to cut down on when trying to adopt a healthier lifestyle. However, it is important to remember that not all snacks are created equal. Greek yogurt, for example, is a great fall snack that satisfies your cravings without making you gain pounds. Greek yogurt is high in protein, which keeps you feeling full between meals. Additionally, the live and active cultures in Greek yogurt have been shown to support gut health and boost immunity.
Fruit Leather:
If you’re looking for a healthier option that will still satisfy your cravings, try fruit leather. This snack is made by slowly cooking fruit until it forms a thick, chewy paste. The resulting dough can be rolled up and stored for months, making it a great option for on-the-go snacks. Plus, fruit leather is a good source of fiber and vitamins, giving you a nutritional boost. This snack is very popular with young and old.
Energy Balls:
Made with a variety of nutritious ingredients like nuts, seeds, dried fruits, honey and natural nut butters. The Energy Balls are loaded with nutrients that will help you fuel up throughout the day. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead and store in the fridge or freezer for those afternoon or evening cravings. The next time you crave a snack, try one of the energy ball recipes and enjoy a healthy snack that will leave you feeling satisfied.
