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Healthy snacks to keep on hand

Whether you prefer to eat 3 solid meals per day or 6 small meals throughout the day, when we get busy and miss meals there is a greater risk of reaching for unhealthy snacks. To avoid unhealthy snacking and binging it’s important to plan ahead and keep wholesome food snacks which don’t require lengthy preparation on hand at all times.

Here are 8 healthy snacks that you should keep on hand.

Raw vegetables and hummus

Hummus is a tasty dip that is packed with protein which keeps blood sugar stable, keeping us feeling full for longer. Dipping raw vegetables like celery, cucumbers, carrots and cherry tomatoes in hummus is a delicious and healthy snack. You can easily make hummus and slice up the vegetables yourself to store in the fridge for future snacks on-the-go, or you can buy them in small servings if you’re looking for a snack in a hurry.

Nut butter and apples

Nut butter, made from whatever nuts you prefer e.g. almonds, macadamias, peanuts or cashews, is a satisfying spread which is rich in fats and protein and delicious when eaten with slices of apple. Apples are high in fibre which keeps us satiated and can be transported easily. You can keep nut butter in small containers and store them in your desk at work, in your handbag or fridge at home.

Kale Chips

Kale chips make a delicious, crispy snack and are loaded with fibre, some protein, vitamins A and C, folate and omega 3 fatty acids. You can find healthy kale chips with no nasty additives in most health stores, and you can also make your own by coating kale leaves in oil and spices and drying them out in the oven.

Plain Yogurt

Plain, organic yogurt is a great way to get calcium, healthy fats, protein and probiotics in an easy snack that you can keep in your fridge, office drawer or handbag. You can sweeten it with some fresh fruit, stevia or xylitol, but make sure to avoid flavoured yogurts which are loaded with sugar and additives.

Hard-Boiled Eggs

Hard-boiled eggs are a healthy source of protein and are packed with omega 3 fatty acids like DHA which is important for brain function and concentration. Hard-boiled eggs are easy to prepare in advance and store in the fridge, take to work or grab as a snack when you’re on the go.

Nuts 

Nuts are a quick and easy snack that can be kept in your pantry or taken with you when you leave the house. Cashews, almonds, Brazil nuts, macadamias, peanuts, hazelnuts and many others are a great source of healthy fats, protein and minerals. Just make sure you source organic, raw nuts for the best source of nutrients.

Popcorn

Popcorn is a delicious low-calorie snack that is easy and affordable to make. Simply prepare some air-popped popcorn in the microwave or pop it on the stove with some butter or oil, add some salt and store in air-tight containers for when you need a tasty snack on the go, at home or work.

Berries

All types of berries, whether raspberries, strawberries or blueberries, are loaded with antioxidants, high in fibre, low in calories and contain carbohydrates that won’t spike your blood sugar. You can keep them in small tubs for snacks on the go or you can add them to your bowl of yogurt.

Sources
https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-12570/10-healthy-snacks-to-always-have-on-hand.html