Snacking is somewhat of a controversial topic when it comes to weight loss. On the one hand, strategic snacking throughout the day can help to keep hunger cravings at bay, but on the other hand, mindless snacking can lead to overeating and ultimately weight gain. The key to healthy snacking is to stick to nutritionally dense foods that provide value to your diet and to monitor your intake throughout the day to prevent overconsumption. Here are some of the all-time best snacks for healthy weight loss. 

Nuts

Nuts really are the king of healthy snacks. High in protein, healthy fats, and fiber which all keep you feeling fuller for longer, they’re the perfect snack to eat at home or on the go. Almonds, walnuts, and pecans are some of the most popular nuts to choose from, but hazelnuts, pistachios, brazils, cashews, and macadamias are also great choices and can help to add some variety to your snacking. The key to consuming nuts in a healthy way is to weigh out your portions in advance, otherwise, it is too easy to over-eat them. If you’re a fan of flavored nuts, then stick to savory roasted varieties as these tend to have fewer additional calories than sweet flavorings. 

Dried Fruit 

Fresh fruit is another all-time best healthy snack, however, some of us struggle to get excited by an apple or a banana. If you find fresh fruit uninspiring, then give unsweetened dried fruit a go instead. Dried fruit has a completely different texture to fresh fruit, and as such, provides a new eating experience that can make eating fruit more enjoyable. When consuming dried fruit as a snack, you will need to weigh out your portions. This is because without the extra water-weight, dried fruit is a lot easier to eat, and before you know it you could have eaten the equivalent of five mangoes or 20 apricots! 

Seeds

If nuts are the king of healthy snacks, then seeds are the queen. Packed with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals; like nuts, seeds are also a great snack that helps you to feel full for longer. Pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds are two of the all-time great snacking seeds, but if you’re feeling adventurous then you could also try chia seeds which swell to create a delicious glutinous dessert when combined with coconut milk. 

Popcorn 

If you’re trying to lose weight, then home-made popcorn is a fantastic healthy snack. By popping the kernels yourself, you remain in control over the oil and seasonings that you use, allowing you to keep calories down. Plain popcorn is full of healthy fiber and protein, and because it is so light and airy, a one-ounce serving produces a huge bowl of popcorn that tricks your brain into thinking it has eaten more than it has. 

Chickpeas

Last but by no means least, chickpeas are a versatile and massively underrated healthy snack. Softened and roasted, chickpeas are a delicious savory snack that can easily replace unhealthy snacks such as chips. Alternatively, if you’re a fan of hummus, then softened chickpeas can be easily blended with a little tahini to make a smooth and creamy high-protein dip for vegetable crudites - delicious!