Unsure whether you should be including snacks to support your weight loss goals?
When it comes to snacking for weight loss, protein and fiber are key! Choose snacks that are high in unprocessed protein (like Greek yogurt, eggs, or cottage cheese) and pair them with fibre-rich, low-energy foods (such as veggies and fruit). This combination helps keep you full and satisfied, while preventing those energy-dense, processed snacks that can quickly add to your daily energy intake
The Pros of Snacking
Increased satiety: Balanced and structured snacks can curb hunger between meals, helping you avoid midafternoon sugar cravings and mindless snacking.
Steady energy: Snacking on protein and fibre rich options can help maintain stable blood sugar levels, giving you sustained energy throughout the day.
Supports weight loss: When chosen wisely, snacks can assist weight loss by keeping you satisfied and preventing overeating.
The Cons
Overconsumption: Even healthy snacks (e.g., nuts and seeds) can add excess energy if you are not mindful of portion sizes
The wrong choices: Processed snacks high in sugar or unhealthy fats are typically high in energy and easy to overconsume, so quicky add to an excess energy intake
Mindless snacking: Snacking out of boredom or stress can result in eating without hunger, leading to excess energy intake.
Snacking Ideas for Weight Loss
Here are 4 simple, delicious snack ideas that will keep your energy in check and help you stay on track with your weight loss:
- High Protein Greek yogurt topped with fresh or frozen berries and a sprinkle of seeds
- Roasted chickpeas or fava beans paired with carrot sticks and a handful of fresh strawberries
- Hard-boiled egg on a whole grain rice cake, topped avocado and cucumber
- Cottage cheese spread on whole grain crackers, topped with sliced tomato and rocket (or for a sweet version, try sliced banana with a sprinkle of cinnamon)
These snacks will not only satisfy your cravings but also fuel your body with the nutrients it needs for sustainable weight loss. Remember: snacking doesn’t have to derail your goals – it can actually be part of the plan!