If you are on a weight loss journey, this probably involves consuming fewer calories than you are used to, and maybe doing more physical activity as well. This can soon bring great results, but unfortunately you might often find yourself feeling hungry and reaching for a snack…and before you know it, you’ve eaten a ‘forbidden’ food such as biscuits or crisps.
Breaking your diet with highly processed foods can send you on a guilt trip and lead to further lapses, but don’t worry or blame yourself: these foods are designed to be addictive with very sweet or salty flavours, and we just crave more of them the more we eat.
Instead of denying yourself the nutritional needs your body is asking for, here are some healthier alternatives to power you through the day.
Healthier choices on the go
If you are out and about, choosing healthier options can be difficult when you are faced with rows of chocolate bars, cakes and crisps in supermarkets or coffee shops. Here are some of the best choices you can make.
Unsalted and unsweetened popcorn
Popcorn is made from crunchy corn kernels, which is a whole grain food that is high in fibre and also packed with vitamins and minerals. This makes it a nutritious as well as delicious low-calorie snack, but unfortunately most manufacturers add a lot of salt and sugar to make us crave more. However, in larger supermarkets you can find low sugar and salt versions.
Unsalted nuts and seeds
Packs of roasted mixed nuts and seeds are full of fibre, protein and healthy unsaturated fats, plus a good range of vitamins and minerals. They are also very filling and will provide a slow release of energy throughout the day, making them a perfect snack.
Healthier choices at home
For days when you are at home and are tempted to snack on sugary cakes or desserts, try adding some Greek yoghurt to a handful of berries. The fruit will provide natural sweetness, whilst the yoghurt is packed with gut-friendly probiotics and protein.
Muffins with low-fat cream cheese are a healthier alternative to toast and jam or buns and doughnuts.
Healthy snacks to prepare in advance
If you are off on a long hike or even just to the office, plan ahead and prepare some snacks so you are not faced with the temptation to buy junk food. Hard boiled eggs are an excellent and portable snack that are packed with vitamins B12 and D, and a good source of protein and selenium. Boil up a pan full at the start of the week to ensure you have a good supply.
Malt loaf is a great snack if you have a sweet tooth, because it contains naturally sweet dried fruit and less added sugar and is much lower in fat than most commercially produced cakes. It’s also easy to make your own version with wholemeal flour and added nuts, seeds or spices to your taste.
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