The best way to lose weight is to increase consumption of fruits and vegetables. That increases volume and decreases calorie density. Apples are quick and tasty source of energy and the healthy fats and protein form the nut butter with satiate you and fuel you longer than just an apple alone.
2. Steel cut Oats
Not only are these the least processed of all the Oat options out there but they are also naturally gluten free (when processed in GF environment). This wonderful low glycemic, complex carb is full of nutrients and a great quick source of fuel for your day. Make ahead the night before for a fast and healthy snack on the run!
3. Organic Popcorn
When organic, popcorn is a safe and healthy snack that can be jazzed up with a variety of spices and herbs. My favourite is coconut oil and chili seasoning. The kids love to spray malt vinegar, Sea salt and Dill on theirs! Craving something more sweet? Try a light dusting of cinnamon and raw sugar.
4. Dark Chocolate and Nuts
LIving healthy isn't about cutting out all the foods you love, it's finding healthy alternatives or variations! I would die if I didn't have chocolate. So I allow myself to have one 70% cocoa or higher bar a week. My suggestion is get the best quality you can afford! Break it up into small pieces and add it to a bowl of macadamia, walnuts and dried fruit and voila you have a super tasty and healthy treat that will quickly fill you up and boost your mood and energy!
5. Hummus and veggies
One of the healthier options for dips is hummus, a Middle Eastern dip made with chickpeas, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and tahini, which is a sesame seed paste. It provides you with protein and a number of essential vitamin and minerals, and while it can be high in fat, it is mostly heart-healthy unsaturated fat.
6. Spicy Watermelon and Pistachios
This may sound weird but I had it at a friends house recently and trust me, it's so good and easy! Just toss 2 cups cut-up watermelon with 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice and ½ teaspoon grated lime zest. Sprinkle with a pinch of cayenne pepper and 2 teaspoons chopped unsalted roasted pistachios.
7. Sliced meats
I am not really a fan or processed lunch meats, however there are many preservative free options hitting our grocer shelves. Some ways to use lunch meat other than in a sandwich are:
Option 1: Top celery with vegetable cream cheese and turkey.
Option 2: Wrap pretzel rods with turkey and serve with mustards for dipping.
Option 3: Top multigrain crackers with turkey and dollop with ranch dressing.
8. Full fat Cottage Cheese
Yes you read that correct, full fat not fat free. Full fat offers you more micronutrients per calorie than the fat free variety and higher fatty acids may also play a role in gene expression and hormone regulation. In simple terms, these acids may crank up how much energy your body burns, or limit the amount of fat your body stores. Plus it tastes way better!
9. Hard boiled eggs
Not only are eggs a fantastic source of lean protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, but they contain some pretty important nutrients. But wait, the yolks have Cholesterol..True but our body actually needs the cholesterol in meat and eggs to make testosterone, which helps to increase energy and helps to build more calorie-building muscle. In fact, one study at the University of Connecticut found that the fat in egg yolks actually helps to reduce LDL (“bad” cholesterol). So banish the old notion that an egg, specifically the yolk, is hazardous to your health.
10. Sushi
Ok this one can be argued to weather its a snack or not, but given the small portions whether you are eating Sushi (On rice ball), Sashimi (just fish no rice) or Maki (Roll), they can also be a healthy snack! Caution to the Maki rolls however as they can come deep fried, and/or filled with not so healthy ingredients. Still one of our favourites.