Snacks are the bridge between meals that provide an energy boost and can oftentimes lead to a healthier weight. They provide your body with proper fuel throughout the day and when mealtime finally rolls around you are not starving. This leads to smaller portions and a decreased chance of overeating. Here are some healthy snacks to reach for throughout the day, most of which will be great for children too.
1. Fruits
Fruits are one of the healthiest foods to snack on. The water content in fruits hydrates. One of the biggest effects of dehydration is lethargy, crankiness, and an overall lack of energy. The antioxidants in fruits combat free radicals which damage healthy cells and cause premature ageing as well as disease.
The fibre in fruits keeps you fit and healthy and gives you the sense of being full. The nutrients in them also pack a punch. Fruits also boost brain power preventing age-related memory loss. The natural sugar in fruits is a source of energy and it also helps stabilize blood sugar preventing blood sugar crashes. They are great energy boosters.
Great fruits to snack on in the course of the workday or school day include apples, bananas, watermelon, pineapple, blueberries, avocado, and strawberries. Fruits are healthy snacks that are convenient requiring little effort to prepare if any. Eat an apple whole, peel a banana, and eat blueberries and strawberries whole.
2. Popcorn
Popcorn is healthy whole grain and a great source of fibre which gives that feeling of fullness and is a natural way of regulating appetite. It is packed with antioxidants which protect the cells and prevent diseases like cancer. It is also a great cure for munchies. It’s tasty, light, crunchy, and versatile making it possible to flavour it, and is inexpensive to boot. Snacks: Different Ways To Make Delicious Popcorn
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3. Yogurt
Yoghurt is full of probiotics which are great for the gut and digestive health. Probiotics also aid in boosting the immune system, help in managing weight, and lower the risk of cancer. Plain yoghurt can increase the absorption of minerals, promote lower blood pressure, and aid in weight loss. This makes yoghurt a healthy snack, especially for people trying to manage their weight or lose weight.
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4. Nuts
Nuts are high in good fat and fibre as well which makes them extremely filling. They satisfy your hunger longer and are a natural way of regulating appetite. They are full of antioxidants that protect cells from damage, reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of heart problems.
Nuts reduce the amount of LDL cholesterol which is the bad cholesterol linked to heart disease. They are a great snack not just because they are tasty and nutritious but also because they are readily available, affordable and an easy option. Just grab and go, no work involved.
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5. Homemade granola bars
Granola bars are a good source of energy. They are filling and full of fibre which gives you that feeling of fullness. They are also full of vital nutrients that are beneficial for brain health. You can buy granola bars, but making them at home gives you greater control and makes them healthier because they have no additives. They are a healthy, delicious snack.
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6. Boiled eggs
Boiled eggs are a great low-calorie, low-carb snack. They boost brain health and are a great source of protein, which helps fuel the muscles. As regular snacks, they have a positive long-term impact on brain health.
Boiled eggs have a nutrient called choline which promotes intelligence and memory in the brain. Some research on pregnant rats indicates a correlation between choline intake and the ability of the offspring to perform mental tasks. Health: The Benefits Of Eating Eggs
7. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is packed full of nutrients including powerful antioxidants. Oats regulate blood sugar preventing spikes and crashes which can interfere with energy levels in the course of the day.
Oatmeal is also high in fibre which slows digestion, regulates energy levels, and keeps you feeling fuller longer. They are a natural way of regulating appetite and can even aid in weight loss.
Oatmeal also promotes better sleep. Quality sleep is linked to increased energy levels, improved brain performance, improved mental health, strengthened immune system, better relationships, better overall health, and even weight loss.
Whatever you’re in the mood for, there’s a snack here for you. Yoghurt for something creamy, watermelon or pineapple for something sweet, and nuts for something sweet or savoury. Lifestyle: Healthy Oat Recipes You Should Try
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