True story: I’m sitting in Kroger, post 6 mile run, chugging my water, & trying to figure out how I want to intro this post. I’m a little hungry and thinking of these lovely snacks I’m typing up…then I see it. The “Candy Center” at the end of aisle 8. Although I don’t have sweet cravings since going plant based, I’m a chocolate lover. If I let myself get too hungry and there’s not kids around, I shall devour it all. So I try to keep some healthy snacks around to prevent myself from getting to that tipping point.
Many of you have asked about ways to help satisfy and tame your sweet tooth. If ditching sugar is on your agenda, check out this post with some ideas of how I was finally able to get rid of those nightly cravings! I use to be a huge snacker, but now find myself feeling pretty good with three meals a day and a snack. When I do reach for a snack, I try to make sure I’m setting a good example for the girls and grabbing fruit or one of these.
Now let’s dive into what these snacks are shall we…
1. Raw Mixed Nuts
Mixed nuts are full of healthy fats and may help lower inflammation markers in the blood. Inflammation in the body can cause numerous diseases and conditions such as arthritis, allergies, cardiovascular disease, & so on. One study even found that four brazil nuts could lower cholesterol levels for up to 30 days – yes, 1 month! What cholesterol medication can do that?!
2. No Sugar Added Dried Fruit
This one is hard because you can’t just go to the store and buy any ol’ fruit. Dried bananas and cranberries are two that come to mind in terms of lots of sugar added when they’re dried and packaged. But if you can find a reputable brand or make your own, these are a great snack that you don’t have to worry about preparing.
3. Hummus and Veggies
Making your own hummus is easier than you think! So whip up some and dip them in veggies. This helps you get in beans to your diet too. Beans are a source of protein and fiber that help to keep your blood sugar level. This means your blood sugar won’t crash, causing you to crave sugar and carbs.
4. Avocado Toast
This is a great way to start eating avocados if you don’t like them. Mash up half an avocado, add pepper, salt, and lemon juice, then smear onto a piece of sprouted grain toast. Top with thinly sliced up purple onion, cucumber, and peppers. It’s so good! Plus, avocados are full of potassium, help lower cholesterol, and their fat content may help you better absorb nutrients from other vegetables!
5. Plant Based Yogurt with Almond Butter
Take this to work and it’s sure to keep you full! Mix 1 cup unsweetened plant based yogurt, such as almond or coconut. Add 2 TBSP almond butter, 1 TBPS chai seeds, 1 TBPS hemp seeds, and a handful of fresh or frozen berries. Mix it all together to give yourself a filling snack.
6. Greek Salad
When we visited Greece I was highly disappointed when I ordered my first Greek salad, there was no lettuce! Instead, they chop up cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, fresh olives, and red onions. Then, top with olive oil, lemon juice, and a little dill. I am not a fan of tomatoes, but really did enjoy this!
7. Crackers Topped with Strawberry-Mango Salsa
In Germany there were these big, organic, sprouted grain crackers I would buy. Haven’t found them in the US. But you can find smaller crackers, so instead chop up some strawberries and mangos, top with a little lime juice and cinnamon, and dip your crackers in. If it tickles your fancy, add a little plant based butter. This snack if great if you’re craving something sweet!
8. DIY Kale Chips
These are so easy to make. Wash and de-stem a bunch of kale. Make sure to get rid of all the stems or you’ll have hard to eat parts in your chips! Toss in olive oil, salt, and pepper then bake for 350*F for 3-5 minutes, or until crispy.
9. Celery with Peanut Butter
I know this is an oldie, but I feel like a goodie. Wash and chop up celery and dip in some peanut butter.
10. Air Popped Popcorn
Popcorn is a whole grain. The problem with most popcorn is it is cooked in oil, smothered in butter, or made in those toxic microwave bags. Get an air popper and make a wholesome snack for yourself. Ensure you buy organic to avoid GMO corn, especially if you’re in the United States.
Can you add any healthy snacks to my list? Share them below. Did you find this article helpful? Share it with a family or friend so they can also enjoy it!
Thank you for visiting and reading my 10 healthy snacks! I really appreciate and believe in you!
XO Meghan
Leave a Reply