Figuring out which snacks to purchase from the supermarket can be overwhelming, especially if you are unaware of snacks that will completely ruin your diet. After all, labels can be misleading, and you never know how much sugar or carbs are in a single packet of your favourite snack.
The best way to lose weight is by making healthier options- make your snacks at home instead of purchasing them as you never know the ingredients and quantities that have been used. Moreover, increase your protein intake and consume unrefined food.
Regardless of what anyone tells you, snacking is important to keep you feeling energetic. Choose snacks that are high in water and fiber, and low in refined sugar and fat. Here are some examples of low-calorie snacks:
1. Energy Balls
Energy balls are loaded with protein and good mono-unsaturated fats to help you feel full for a longer period of time. Choose a recipe that contains flaxseed or oats for a boost of fiber. Instead of using sugar, use natural fruit which is high in fiber, such as strawberries.
Recipe
- Medjool dates: 10, pitted
- Rolled oats: 1 cup
- Dried cranberries: ¼ cup
- Almonds: ¼ cup
- Almond butter: 4 tablespoons
Blitz the dates in a food processor till you are left with a smooth paste. Throw in the almonds, cranberries, oats, and almond butter- pulse until all the ingredients are combined. Wet your hands and make 20 small energy balls. Pop them in the freezer for an hour and use them for up to 2 weeks each time you feel hungry in the middle of the day!
2. Frozen Cubes of Mango
Did you know that a yogurt-sized bowl of mango cubes is only 90 calories but makes up more than 60 percent of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C?
If you are looking for a quick, low-calorie snack, dice some fresh mango and put the cubes in the freezer for a day. Consume them the next day with some yogurt or on their own- this snack is also great for those who have frequent cravings for sugar!
3. Banana Chocolate Bites
Two servings of banana chocolate bites contain only 99 calories, as well as protein and healthy fats, making them great to include in your everyday diet.
Recipe
- Bananas: 3, ripe
- Almond butter: As needed
- Dark chocolate chips: ½ cup
- Coconut oil: 2 teaspoons
Start by slicing the bananas and laying them out flat. Put ½ teaspoon of the almond butter on top of each banana slice and then top with another banana- almost like you are making a sandwich. Then, put the bananas in a baking tray and pop them in the freezer for an hour.
While your bananas are chilling, take some coconut oil and mix them with the chocolate chips. Pop the bowl in the microwave so that everything can melt together. Once ready, dip half the frozen banana in the chocolate mixture so that half of it is coated. Pop the bananas in the freezer again till the chocolate hardens, and then consume for up to 2 months!