Snacking can be a total game-changer when it comes to losing weight, especially when it is done mindfully. Healthy snacks can help bridge the gap in between meals so you are not overly hungry throughout the day, help keep your energy levels up, and help prevent you from overeating when it comes to mealtimes. Trying to lose weight does not mean that you need to give up snacking. Instead, you must be more mindful about fueling your body with nutrient-dense snacks, rather than snacks that just provide empty calories. This means a thoughtful weight loss meal plan. It also means fighting the impulse to reach for your favorite bag of chips before lunchtime and instead opting for a healthier choice like trail mix or mixed veggies and fruits.
When you satisfy your hunger with healthy snacks, you will be less likely to want to eat unhealthy foods and go over your calorie limit. One of the hardest things about losing weight is knowing which snacks will compliment your weight loss goals and which ones will only provide empty calories. Here are a few snack ideas that will help you along your weight loss journey:
Hummus And Vegetables
Hummus is a traditional Mediterranean dish that is made from pureed chickpeas. Hummus provides a great source of protein and fiber, both of which can help you feel fuller much faster. Fiber and protein-rich foods can prevent hunger cravings between meals. Hummus can be paired with vegetables and due to its popularity, this nutritious dip comes in many different flavor options so you can mix it up and not get bored.
Popcorn
We aren’t talking about the popcorn you get from the movie theater where it is drenched in delicious butter complemented by the perfect amount of salt. We are talking about plain, lightly salted, air-popped popcorn which is rich in fiber and low in calories. Equally as delicious, plain popcorn is a perfect snacking option, especially when you are craving something a little bit salty.
Greek Yogurt And Berries
Greek yogurt is high in protein and calcium and low in calories and fat. The delicious combination of adding berries into your greek yogurt mix will add nutritional value and a sweet, delicious taste. The best greek yogurt is the plain variety, not vanilla, or any other flavor. Watch out for greek yogurt with extra flavoring because it will most likely contain added sugar.
Dried Fruit And Trail Mix
Dried fruit is an easily portable and delicious snack that can be enjoyed throughout the day. Eating fruit aids in weight loss because it is packed full of filling fiber and important vitamins and minerals. Adding dried fruit into a trail mix will provide you with the optimal balance of protein and healthy carbs. Trail mix and dried fruit is an easy snack that can be prepared and can be conveniently consumed while you are working at your desk or on the go.
Dark Chocolate
Yup, you read that right! When you think of healthy snacks, chocolate may not be the first thing to come to your mind. But the scrumptious treat has been touted for many years because of its health benefits. Dark chocolate (when it is not loaded with sugar and saturated fat) is rich in disease-fighting antioxidants and can help reduce blood pressure and lower your risk of heart disease. Now we aren't saying that you should go to your nearest grocery store and purchase as many Kit Kat bars as you can. It is all about moderation and eating the right, low-sugar, high-quality dark chocolate products.
Planning for and incorporating snacks into your weight loss meal plan is as important as planning your meals ahead of time. If you are meal prepping your meals for the week, make sure to prep your snacks for the week as well. This will ensure that you do not reach for any last-minute unhealthy snack options if you become too busy or a craving hits. Keep stock of your healthy snack options and remember to shake up your daily snacks so you do not get bored of a certain snack too quickly. Also, remove any tempting, unhealthy snacks you may have around your home or in your workspace to help curb cravings.
Eating healthy snacks throughout your weight loss journey can help you reach more successful outcomes and help you manage weight. Look for snacks that are low in sugar and calories but are high in nutrients such as fiber and protein. At Jensen Fitness, our team of weight loss coaches can guide you along your weight loss journey by providing you with weight-loss meal plans and snack ideas to help you see optimal results. To find out more about our weight loss programs and personal training programs, and how our highly qualified personal trainers in Calgary can help you achieve incredible, safe, and sustainable results, contact us by calling 403-200-0199 or by filling out our online contact form.
Q: Is it okay if I snack in between every meal?
A: If you need to snack in between every meal, you must eat nutrient-dense snacks. Try not to have a big snack in between every meal and instead only eat light snack options such as trail mix.
Q: Do I have to work out if I want to lose weight even though I am eating a healthy diet?
A: Exercise is not only great for helping with weight loss, but it is also important to keep your health in check by reducing the risk of developing several diseases such as Type 2 Diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Q: Can a personal trainer help me with my nutrition?
A: Unless your personal trainer has their nutrition certification, then they can only offer you advice. If you are looking for a more personalized approach, consult a nutrition coach.
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