#healthy-snacks

#healthy-snacks

What sweet snack, then, can we rely on for a boost of energy during the all-too-familiar midafternoon slump? Fruit is never a bad option, and blending it into smoothies can be a great way to fill up without the dreaded sugar-filled crash. Smoothies day after day can get a little samey, though, and sometimes it's good to branch out and try a method that's arguably even better: covering the fruit in chocolate.

Choosing the right snacks can be a game-changer for maintaining energy and overall health, but looks can be deceiving when it comes to nutrition. Many snacks marketed as "healthy," like bran muffins and cereal bars, are actually loaded with hidden sugars and unhealthy fats. Even "fat-free" options can sneak in excess salt and sugar to make up for the flavor loss, which may ultimately do more harm than good.

A veggie platter brings plenty of color, crunch, and nutrients, featuring vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, carrots, and celery alongside a variety of flavorful dips.

Skinny Pop popcorn from Costco features just three ingredients (popcorn, sunflower oil, and salt) and is made without any trans fats or artificial flavors and colors.

These no-bake protein balls are easy to make with ingredients like peanut butter, oats, and flax, providing a satisfying, healthy snack option.

Sardines have a salty, rich flavor and a texture that allows for many versatile applications. That's great for people dipping their toes into the tinned fish world.

The air fryer transforms soggy rotisserie chicken skin into crispy, delicious snacks, providing a quick, versatile way to enjoy leftovers from any chicken dish.

BEEUP harnesses nutrient-dense honey to offer kids and families a naturally sweet upgrade from refined sugars without synthetic additives.

Stuffed dried figs are the perfect option. They're incredibly simple to prepare and easy to customize, too. However you choose to fill them, the result will be a pleasing, bite-sized treat that offers an irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that I can control the ingredients. I'm using high-quality avocado oil along with lime and spices for this wholesome snack, and avoiding additives and preservatives found in store-bought chips.

These Pickled Sugar Snap Peas combine a light brine with rice vinegar for a clean flavor, perfect for snacking or adding to salads.

Sweet munchies don't have to sabotage your energy. Stick to real food and fruit-forward treats to stay mellow and nourished.