10 Healthy Snack Ideas to Keep You Fit and Energized

For me, watching what I eat has always been the most difficult when snacking. Those spur of the moment cravings coupled with all of the unhealthy snack options available make it very difficult to make healthy choices. Assuming I’m not the only one who frequently experiences these snacking struggles, I have put together a list of 10 healthy snack options. The protein and natural sugars found in each snack will both curb your appetite and keep you energized in between meals.

#1 Hummus & Red Peppers

Do you find most healthy snacks bland and unappealing? Hummus and red peppers is a great option. Choose your favorite variety of hummus (I prefer my hummus with a little kick), and pair it with slices of red bell pepper. The result is a lean protein-filled snack that tastes great!

#2 Tomato Slices with Feta Cheese and EVOO

Looking for something a little more exquisite when it comes to snacking? No problem. Slice up some fresh tomatoes, drizzle a little extra-virgin olive oil over the tomatoes, and top with a few pieces of feta cheese. You can even add some of your favorite Italian herbs to give an extra punch. The rich combination of flavors will be sure to leave you feeling satisfied.

#3 Trail Mix

Trail mix is always a smart snack option, if you are doing it right. Try to find mixes with all natural ingredients, like nuts and dried fruits. If there is chocolate, make sure it is dark chocolate. I personally suggest putting together your own trail mix, that way you can pick and choose what ingredients you want, and what quantities you would like them in. Generally, my personal mix consists of no-sugar added dried fruits, and lots of unsalted nuts.

#4 Edamame Beans

Edamame one of the most underutilized healthy snacks available. This is partially due to the fact that not enough people know about it. Edamame beans are immature soybeans that are left in their pod, either boiled or steamed, and served with salt. they are a great energy booster, low calorie, and filled with protein. As far as lean proteins go, Edamame is as good as it gets.

#5 Natural Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is a food I normally consider unhealthy, unless it is natural or organic peanut butter. Natural peanut butter contains all the same healthy nutrients and proteins that can be found in normal peanut butter, while cutting out additional sugar and oil. It still contains a lot of fat, but they are natural fats, and therefore healthy in small quantities. I suggest pairing a tablespoon of natural peanut butter with some apple slices, a banana, or celery.

#6 Nuts

When I am asked about healthy snack options, nuts are almost always my first suggestion. Whether cashews, almonds, or peanuts, they are all packed with protein and natural fats. Their high protein concentration allows small quantities to provide you with energy and make you feel full throughout the day

#7 Fruit & Vegetables

It has always been said, the simpler the better. Fruits and vegetables are perfect examples when it comes to the world of snack foods. We have a large variety to choose from, all full of healthy vitamins, nutrients and sugars. No matter what kind of mood you are in, there is a fruit or vegetable to fit your needs.

#8 Yogurt & Granola

In addition to being full of flavor and crunch, a yogurt and granola parfait is healthy too! The yogurt contains healthy bacteria that fights off illness in the digestive tract, and both granola and yogurt have proteins that help to control your appetite. Try to find low fat yogurts, and make sure you do not go overboard on the granola, as it has a substantial amounts of sugar in it.

#9 Your Favorite Whole Grain Protein Bar

When you’re on the go, protein bars are perfect. They’re light, healthy, filling, and the packaging is designed with mobility in mind. In the car, on the bus, while taking a weekend hike, protein bars have always got you covered. Try some different brands and  flavors, and find out which suits you best. I am personally a fan of Nature Valley’s Crunchy Peanut flavor.

#10 Soy Chips

If you’re craving potato chips, but know you shouldn’t be eating them, soy chips are the answer. I see them as a sort of rice cake and potato chip hybrid, that has an extra dose of protein. They generally come in a variety of flavors, so no matter what type of chips you desire, you can satisfy your craving. While they are very light, I quickly find myself feeling full after eating only a few.

I hope you’ll enjoy in these healthy snack ideas! If you have some other suggestions to share with us, please comment bellow.

Cover photo: running.about.com