Snacks have a bad reputation when it comes to weight loss. However, they’re not all bad! While it’s true that many of the most popular snacks out there are highly processed and therefore terrible for your health (especially if a slimmer waistline is your goal), there are plenty of options out there that can help you kick your potato chip habit while still enjoying a tasty snack between meals. In fact, choosing satiating snacks is one great way to avoid overeating at meals and stay on track with your weight loss goals.
To discover a few salty snacks that you can enjoy while slimming down, we spoke to nutritionist Mary Sabat. She told us that roasted edamame, nuts and seeds, and air-popped popcorn are among the best choices. Read on to learn more about the benefits of each!
1. Roasted edamame
Who knew a veggie could make such a tasty snack?! According to Sabat, roasted edamame makes a fantastic choice for anyone looking to lose weight while still enjoying a salty, crunchy pick-me-up. They even offer up plenty of nutrients that your body needs to thrive, like vitamin E, vitamin B6, potassium, and more.
"When roasted, edamame beans become a crunchy, savory snack that can satisfy cravings for salty snacks without packing on the calories," Sabat tells us. "Unlike many other salty snacks, edamame beans are relatively low in fat and calories, making them a good choice for weight loss. A 1/2 cup serving of roasted edamame beans contains around 100 calories, 8 grams of protein, and 4 grams of fiber. By snacking on edamame beans instead of [higher-calorie] snacks like chips or crackers, you can reduce your overall calorie intake and support weight loss." Perfect!
2. Nuts and seeds
It doesn't get much more tried-and-true than snacking on some nuts. This classic snack is a weight loss staple for a reason. In fact, Sabat says lightly salted nuts and seeds make some of the best choices for a quick, ultra-satiating snack.
"Nuts and seeds are packed with healthy fats, protein, fiber, and various essential nutrients," she says. "They can provide a feeling of satiety and help control hunger."
A pre-portioned serving of nuts makes a particularly good alternative to processed packaged snacks when you're on the go. "Opt for pre-packaged, portion-controlled servings. Examples include individual packs of almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds," Sabat notes.
3. Air-popped popcorn
You don't need to wait 'till you're watching a movie to pull out the popcorn! Believe it or not, when it's not loaded with butter, air-popped popcorn can actually support healthy weight loss.
"Popcorn is a whole grain snack that is low in calories and high in fiber," Sabat explains. "It can be a great alternative to traditional salty snacks like chips." In fact, without added butter or unhealthy oils, popcorn only clocks in around 30 calories per cup. As Sabat notes, the low calorie and high fiber content will contribute to a feeling of fullness without running the risk of excessive calorie intake. Love it!
The bottom line
Weight loss requires a combination of many healthy habits, from getting enough sleep to sticking to a fat-blasting workout routine. However, one of the most important steps to take is prioritizing a balanced, nutrient-rich diet. By ditching the Doritos and replacing them with these healthy alternatives, you'll be doing wonders for your overall health.
