Although eliminating fattening foods is a key strategy in weight loss, you must replace these foods with healthy snacks. Fortunately, many low-fat and nonfat foods also feature high vitamin, mineral and fiber content, which can help you battle the bulge, give you energy and fill you up between meals. Keep healthy snacks available at home and work so that you feel less tempted by junk food, fast food and other convenience-food options.
Granola Bars
Women’s Health Magazine recommends low-fat, fiber-packed granola bars as a healthy snack to help with weight loss. However, not all granola bars are created equally. Look for bars that clock in under 200 calories, have little to no sugar and have a few grams of fiber. Natural ingredients such as whole grains and real nuts give a granola bar protein power, which help dieters feel more full. The chewy texture of many granola bars also makes them feel like a satisfying snack.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are your go-to option for quick, nutritious snacks that fit into nearly any sensible weight-loss plan. If you find yourself tiring of that apple a day or that tossed green salad, get creative. Pack a mango or jicama sticks with your lunch, and add a squeeze of lime and a dash of chili to them. Freeze a peeled banana for a couple of hours, and then mash it in the blender with a drop or two of vanilla for a healthy banana custard. Add a pinch of salt to watermelon slices to bring out the sugar. Wrap large lettuce leaves around low-fat and nonfat fillings such as whole beans or shredded carrots and salsa to create leafy green tacos.
Dairy Products
Low-fat and nonfat dairy products can help fill you up on the stretches between meals. Try a smoothie with nonfat vanilla yogurt mixed with frozen blueberries and slices of banana. Low-fat or nonfat cottage cheese is a go-to staple for diet dairy snacks. Lightly blend cottage cheese with lemon pepper or garlic powder, and use it as a dip for crunchy veggies such as carrot sticks, radish slices, snow peas, jicama or cucumbers. Spread the dip on romaine lettuce or spinach leaves for a quick salad or on raw heirloom tomato slices for a savory appetizer.
