8 Healthy Snacks to Satisfy Your Hunger Pangs & Cravings: No, it’s not just you, but there many people who feel hungry after consuming meals. These silly and stubborn cravings and hunger pangs can bother you at any time, be it mid-afternoon, evening, or even at midnight. When the mid-afternoon hunger strikes, you often scroll through the food-delivering apps on your smartphone, looking for something to munch on.
Catering to these cravings can happily crush all your macros, getting you off the fitness track. There are various studies suggesting that indulging in healthy snacking can lead to a boost in energy with higher satiety. You can munch on protein-rich snacks or snacks that are high in fiber. But, the problem is, where to find them in an instant.
Well, while you’re enjoying your work-from-home currently, we have got an easy and healthy list of snacks for you. These snacks can be consumed whenever you are bothered by your cravings.
Let’s have a look at them.
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Healthy snacks to take care of your cravings
1. Protein bars
The handiest and hassle-free source of nutrition, protein bars can be your savior when you are hungry as hell and cannot find anything to munch on. Loaded with protein, fiber, and ingredients such as nuts and seeds, these are quite fulfilling and yummy at the same time. You just have to be careful while choosing the bars. Do not go for bars that have a lot of added sugar or other harmful ingredients. Choose natural protein bars. When we talk about protein bars in India, there are many good options available. You can find bars with high protein content as well, which can also serve as a great pre-workout.
2. Peanut butter
Another delectable and great snack! Made with finely roasted peanuts, this snack is great for satisfying your untimely hunger attack. It is rich in protein, fiber, and many other nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Have a spoonful or two whenever you feel hungry. Just make sure that you have chosen an all-natural peanut butter that contains nothing but roasted peanuts with or without added salt. Do not consume more of it as it is high in fats.
3. Apple slices and nut butter
Apple and peanut butter is a classic combination. You can use almond butter in place of peanut butter as it is richer in nutrients and also has a diverse nutritional value when compared to other butter. The fiber from apple and the protein and other nutrients from almond butter make this a perfect snack for busting hunger.
4. Trail mix
It is a mixture of nuts, seeds, certain grains, and something sweet. Not only is it delicious, but also fulfilling. You can buy any trail mix available easily at stores, but, be wary of those that contain sugar-coated berries, extra-salted nuts, etc. You can make your own trail mix as well. Take a fiber-rich cereal and mix lightly salted and roasted cashews, almonds, pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries (low sugar), and raisins.
5. Greek yogurt parfait
To get around 150 calories, spread a layer of non-fat greek yogurt and place half-cup berries on it. Add ¼ cup granola, and a bit of peanut butter. Choose blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries to enhance the antioxidants and fiber profile.
6. Mixed fruit bowl topped with chia seeds
Fruits are rich in various micronutrients and fiber. Add some cubes of papaya, watermelon, apple, grapes, pear, and banana to a bowl. Top these with chia seeds. You can add any seasonal fruit. Chia seeds are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and adding these tiny powerhouses to your fruit bowl will increase the nutrient profile.
7. Roasted chickpeas
Now, this one is a yummy and healthy recipe. Rather than munching on chips, that are fried and unhealthy, you can try these. You can buy a can of low-sodium chickpeas from the store and toss it in a bit of olive oil. Season it with herbs and salt and roast for half an hour at 400°F. These are rich in protein and fiber.
8. Protein shake/smoothie
Well, a hassle-free way to satisfy your hunger, protein shakes are totally your savior. You can choose any protein powder of your choice. There are many flavors available. If you are a vegan or allergic to dairy or have lactose intolerance, there are various vegan protein powders too, that you can choose from. You can simply add protein powder to chilled water and consume or add it to your fruit or plant smoothies.
Try out these snacks next time whenever hunger strikes. Not only these snacks are healthy, but also yummy. By consuming these snacks, you can ensure fitness and a total solution for your cravings. Remember, fitness is all about your activity levels and the food choices you make.