29 Delicious and Healthy Snacks to Support Weight Loss Efforts

Want to manage your weight while enjoying tasty snacks? This guide explores 29 healthy options packed with nutrients that can help you stay full and satisfied between meals.

Snacking can be a strategic part of a balanced eating plan, potentially helping to regulate hunger and improve blood sugar levels. The key is choosing snacks rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Let's explore some fantastic choices.

Why Choose Healthy Snacks for Weight Management?

While opinions on snacking's role in weight loss vary, smart snacking can offer significant benefits:

• Control Hunger: Nutrient-rich snacks help keep you feeling full, preventing overeating during meals.
• Boost Nutrient Intake: Snacking is an opportunity to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet, filling nutritional gaps.

How Healthline Vets Brands and Products

Healthline's team rigorously researches and evaluates the recommendations. To ensure safety and efficacy, they:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition
• Fact-check all health claims
• Assess the brand

Here are 29 snacks to keep you feeling good:

1. Mixed Nuts: A Powerhouse of Nutrients

Nuts offer a fantastic combination of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Enjoy a small portion (about 1 ounce or 1/4 cup) to reap the benefits without overdoing the calories. Studies suggest nuts, in moderation, can support weight loss.

2. Red Bell Pepper with Guacamole: Antioxidant and Flavor Packed

Red bell peppers are rich in antioxidants. Combine one large red bell pepper with 1/4 cup of guacamole for a flavorful snack under 200 calories.

3. Greek Yogurt and Mixed Berries: Protein and Antioxidant Rich

Greek yogurt is high in protein, and berries offer a burst of antioxidants. Use a mix of different berries to get a wider range of nutrients and flavors, and enjoy the sweet and tart combination.

4. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter: A Classic Combo

Apples provide fiber, while peanut butter adds healthy fats, plant-based protein, and more fiber. Choose natural peanut butter with no added sugar, containing only peanuts and salt.

5. Cottage Cheese and Fruit: Creamy and Satisfying

Cottage cheese is packed with protein (25 grams per cup!). Pair it with fruits like pineapple, papaya, or watermelon for a sweet and filling snack.

6. Celery Sticks with Cream Cheese: Low-Carb Crunch

This classic low-carb snack combines the crunch of celery with the creaminess of cheese, and five small celery sticks with 1 ounce of cream cheese is only around 100 calories.

7. Kale Chips: A Healthy Alternative to Potato Chips

Kale is loaded with fiber, antioxidants, and minerals. Roast kale with olive oil for a delicious and crispy snack.

8. Dark Chocolate and Almonds: Antioxidant Rich Indulgence

Dark chocolate provides antioxidants, while almonds are a great source of healthy fats. Enjoy a couple of teaspoons of dark chocolate chips or a square of dark chocolate with a handful of almonds

9. Cucumber Slices with Hummus: Refreshing and Filling

Cucumber's fresh flavor pairs perfectly with creamy hummus, a blend of chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and garlic. Get plant-based protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats.

10. A Piece of Fruit: Nature's Candy

Convenient and portable fruits like apples, pears, grapes, grapefruit, and oranges are fantastic snacks. Pair with nuts or yogurt for extra satisfaction.

11. Cherry Tomatoes with Mozzarella: Simple and Nutritious

Combine tomatoes with mozzarella, balsamic vinegar, and a drizzle of olive oil for a snack with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

12. Chia Pudding: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Chia seeds are packed with fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and plant-based protein. They take on a pudding-like consistency when soaked in liquid.

13. Hard-Boiled Eggs: Protein-Packed

Eggs are incredibly filling thanks to their high protein content. Be sure to eat the yolk for essential nutrients like vitamin D and choline.

14. Baby Carrots with Blue Cheese Dressing: A Veggie Boost

Pair carrots with blue cheese dressing to increase absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

15. Cheese with Crackers or Fruit: Balanced Flavors

Cheese offers protein and calcium. Add whole-grain crackers or fruit for added fiber.

16. Beef Jerky or Beef Sticks: Portable Protein

Beef jerky provides a high-protein, portable snack. Look for options with low added sugar and sodium (less than 300mg per serving).

17. Protein Smoothie: Customizable and Convenient

A protein smoothie is a filling way to increase protein intake, add fruits, veggies, and healthy fats like avocado or nut butter.

18. Whole Wheat Toast with Canned Fish: Omega-3 Rich

Canned salmon and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Top whole wheat toast with canned fish for a nutritious and satisfying snack.

19. Edamame: Plant-Based Protein

Edamame (steamed unripened soybeans) is a fiber-rich, complete plant-based protein source perfect for vegans and vegetarians.

20. Oatmeal: Versatile and Filling

Oats are a nutritious whole grain with fiber and protein. Customize with fruit, cinnamon, and chocolate chips or savory toppings like eggs and avocado.

21. Pear Slices with Ricotta Cheese

Enjoy the sweet taste and creamy texture of pear slices with ricotta cheese.

22. Homemade Trail Mix

Combine dried fruit and nuts for a fiber-, protein- and healthy fat-filled snack. Be mindful of portion sizes.

23. Turkey Roll-Ups

These are delicious and nutritious. Turkey provides high-quality protein linked to healthy weight management.

24. Olives with Feta Cheese

Olives with feta cheese are a simple Mediterranean snack packed with flavor.

By choosing these healthy and delicious snacks, you can effectively manage your hunger and support your weight loss goals as part of a balanced diet.