A Nutritionist Tells Us What To Snack On For Weight Loss Over 40

Raspberries

When it comes to the best snacks for weight loss over 40, one of the most important factors to keep in mind is the fiber content. Hunnes explains that since the standard American diet is “high in animal products and low in fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains,” many people aren’t getting enough fiber in their daily meals, which can lead to “constipation, cramping, inflammation, indigestion, colon polyps, and an overall sense of just not feeling great.” Plus, fiber is essential for weight loss. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to fit more of it into your diet–including by snacking on fruits like raspberries.

“Raspberries are some of the highest fiber fruits out there,” Richter says, noting that 1 cup contains a whopping 8 grams of fiber. “This is nearly 30% of your fiber needs for the day,” she explains. In fact, she says raspberries are “the best bet for high-fiber foods that won’t push you over your calorie limit for weight loss.” You can eat them by the handful or add them to yogurt for a tasty, weight loss-friendly parfait. Yum!

Trail mix

Speaking of high-fiber snacks, trail mix is another great option that Best recommends. Next time you’re craving something crunchy, put the chips and pretzels down, and reach for this mix of things like nuts, dried fruits, seeds and granola, and more. What makes trail mix such a great snack for weight loss, though? “The best snacks are those that contain two qualities; low in calories and rich in satiating nutrients; fiber and protein,” Best explains. “Trail mix is one of my favorite snacks, especially while on the go, because it provides a quick source of protein and fiber.” These nutrients are essential to any great snack that can aid weight loss because they allow you to stay satiated. Meanwhile, processed, low-fiber snacks will likely cause you to feel hungry again shortly after eating them, which leads to overeating–and to make matters worse, high-sugar foods only make you crave more of the same. It’s a nightmare for weight loss! Luckily, munching on a healthy trail mix or some raspberries can hit the spot and help you shed a few pounds at the same time. No matter which you choose, your body will thank you!