Do we have anyone with the notion that snacking debars weight management progress in the house today? Whoops! I guess it’s time for a rethink.
Weight loss isn’t about deprivation, you know. If you ask me, healthy snacking should be as mandatory as breakfast. You know why? When done right (in moderation with healthy choices), snacking isn’t “bad” as assumed. In fact, snacks give your body the fuel it needs in-between meals. Snacks help meet most of your nutritional needs. They also help curb hunger, so you don’t overeat at mealtimes.
Comprising the right ratio of nutrients and the right calories, snacks will keep your body energized; your metabolism revved up, and optimally aid you in reaching your weight loss goals. Protein for instance plus the right kinds of exercise stimulates the growth of lean muscle mass, which boosts metabolic rate and promotes calorie burn. For improved digestion, fibre is most necessary and will keep you from binging on fats and sugars.
What to do? Make smart, healthy choices of foods with the right nutrient, not more than 150 – 200 calories.  Here are some nutrient-rich ideas you could try.
Kale is an incredible source of vitamins K, A, and C. Consuming it chip style could become your new go-to late-afternoon snack. Simply place one large bunch raw kale leaves (stems removed) on a cookie sheet, then drizzle with one teaspoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 10 – 12 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius) until crispy. You just got yourself some delicious Krispy Kale Chips to munch on without guilt!
For healthy fats, always have Avocados around. They’re fibre-rich and quite filling as snacks. They also make an excellent source of heart-healthy and belly fat-blasting monounsaturated fat. In need of a refreshing treat to beat the afternoon heat? Make some creamy Greek Yoghurt and Avocado Popsicle ahead to suck on. Combine mashed avocado with some Greek yoghurt, pour into popsicle moulds and simply freeze overnight. Easy, isn’t it?
Looking to nibble on something that feels a bit indulgent? Then look no further than Dark Chocolates. Do you know that Dark chocolate has been linked to reduced heart disease risk and even lower body fat significantly in people who nibble on it more? With about 60% cocoa content, the polyphenol antioxidants in dark chocolates may favourably influence your metabolism – thus working your body to burn off those fats while you snack.
Need more convenient options? Home-made low-calorie granola bars, sugar-free popcorn, hard-boiled egg, nuts (walnuts, almonds, and peanuts), low-fat milk/yoghurt, low-fat or fat-free cheese, baked apples, tomatoes, and fruits like berries (raspberries, strawberries, blueberries), cucumber, grapefruits, bananas, grapes, carrots, make the list too. And don’t forget to indulge lavishly in sips of water.
So there you go snackaholics, some guilt-free nibbles at thy feet!