Healthy snack ideas

Healthy snack ideas

Snacking is often regarded as a bad habit and is frequently restricted or eliminated from our diets. However, snacks can actually be a valuable part of a nutritious eating plan if the foods you choose are healthy and contribute to a well balanced diet.

Snacking is not just for children, adults need snacks as well. Healthy options provide extra energy for exercise or help sustain your stamina until your next meal. Choosing healthy snacks between meals can also prevent overeating by keeping hunger in check.

While snacking can be good for you, it is important to remember that snack calories count toward your total daily intake. Be sure to pick healthy, sensible options and skip processed junk food.

Healthy snack options

• Fresh local fruits. Passion fruit, a slice of watermelon or pineapple, or a banana.
• Vegetables with dips. Fresh cucumber, carrot, or sweet peppers paired with a spoonful of natural yogurt.
• Roasted maize. This classic snack is rich in dietary fiber and naturally oil free.
• Boiled eggs. One boiled egg provides high quality protein to keep you full between meals.
• Plain natural yogurt or lala. Choose unsweetened yogurt or lala, and top it with locally available fresh fruit like a sliced banana, paupau, or passion fruit.
• Boiled sweet potato or arrowroot (nduma). A small boiled portion provides steady, complex carbohydrates for lasting energy.
• Raw nuts. A palmful of unsalted peanuts or macadamia nuts for a quick dose of healthy fats and protein.

Adapted from: https://www.ucsfhealth.org/health-articles/healthy-snack-ideas