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    These Are The 20 Best Healthy Snacks For Weight Loss

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    If you’ve ever snacked your way through a jar of peanut butter in a day, you’re probably pretty damn convinced that snacking is your worst enemy when it comes to weight loss. But yeah, no. Snacks (you know, the healthy, well-portioned kind) can help ensure you don’t get so damn hungry you just say “screw it!” and give up on your whole diet. Still, whipping up your own perfectly portioned snack is way easier said than done. (Honestly, who knew a serving of peanut butter was only two measly tablespoons?!) Make things a whole lot easier on yourself and whip up these nutritionist-approved best healthy snacks for weight-loss snacks instead.

    1. Trail mix

    “My ideal healthy snack combines a little of each of the macronutrients—protein, carbohydrates and fats,” says dietician Kath Younger. “I love to rely on the combination of nuts and fruits, either fresh fruit or dried fruit for a longer shelf life. A small handful of trail mix is one of my favourite snacks that won’t spoil my appetite for my next meal.”

    Make it: Combine equal parts unsweetened dried fruit and unsalted roasted nuts (sorry, no M&Ms this time). Reach for a quarter cup of the mixture when you need a boost.

    Per serving: 682 kilojoules, 9 g fat (1 g saturated), 19 g carbs, 13 g sugar, 3 mg sodium, 2 g fibre, 5 g protein.

    The Master Trail Mix

    This mix, with pumpkin seeds and cranberries, will keep you going.

    On The Go Trail Mix

    Cashews, cherries and chocolate drops add sweetness to this nourishing mix.

    Woolworths Trail Mix

    This nut-based trail mix delivers nutrients and trace minerals.

    2. Yoghurt with nuts and berries

    Younger adds a sprinkle of nuts to protein-rich fat-free yoghurt for some satiating healthy fats. A small handful of berries or another chopped fruit will add texture and sweetness, plus filling fibre. It might sound basic, but it’s a classic snack for a reason.

    Make it: Combine 1/2 cup Greek yoghurt, 2 tablespoons chopped nuts, and 1/2 cup berries in a bowl.

    Per serving: 858 kilojoules, 11 g fat (0 g saturated), 13 g carbs, 7 g sugar, 43 mg sodium, 1 g fibre, 16 g protein.

    3. Sliced tomato with a sprinkle of feta and olive oil

    This savoury dish will make your taste buds happy. Tomatoes pack umami flavour, while feta adds tang and a little bit of salt.

    Make it: Slice 1 medium tomato (or slice up 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes), and top with 28g feta and 1 teaspoon olive oil.

    Per serving: 556 kilojoules, 11 g fat (5 g saturated), 5 g carbs, 4 g sugar, 265 mg sodium, 1 g fibre, 5 g protein.

    4. Shrimp and cocktail sauce

    Shrimp are a great source of lean protein, and it’s easy to find them pre-cooked in any supermarket. (Plus, it makes snack time feel way fancier!)

    Make it: Combine eight cooked, peeled, deveined shrimp with 1/4 cup cocktail sauce for dipping.

    Per serving: 527 kilojoules, 1 g fat (5 g saturated), 16 g carbs, 4 g sugar, 432 mg sodium, 1 g fibre, 14 g protein.

    5. Baby carrots with hummus

    Carrots and hummus are great snacks as is, but adding a sprinkle of seasoning will make your taste buds extra happy.

    Make it: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of seasoning on top of 1/4 cup of regular hummus. Eat with 1 cup of baby carrots.

    Per serving: 987 kilojoules, 12 g fat (5 g saturated), 27 g carbs, 12 g sugar, 416 mg sodium, 10 g fibre, 6 g protein.

    6. ‘Banana split’

    Dietician Robin Plotkin suggests a healthy version of the classic dessert by halving a banana, then topping it with yoghurt and nuts. It’s a delicious combo of carbs, protein, and healthy fat—more importantly, it’s super fun to eat.

    Make it: Slice a small banana in half vertically. Top the open banana face with 1/4 cup non-fat Greek yoghurt and 2 tablespoons of chopped walnuts.

    Per serving: 1013 kilojoules, 10 g fat (1 g saturated), 33 g carbs, 18 g sugar, 23 mg sodium, 4 g fibre, 10 g protein.

    7. Egg on toast

    This healthy snack is great for breakfast lovers—it’s as satisfying as a meal, but the slightly smaller portion size won’t weigh you down. Plotkin recommends using hard-boiled eggs for convenience, which you can make ahead or buy. If you have access to a stove, you can also opt for a scrambled or fried egg.

    Make it: Toast a slice of whole-grain toast. Top with one egg, cooked to your preference.

    Per serving: 761 kilojoules, 6 g fat (2 g saturated), 20 g carbs, 4 g sugar, 221 mg sodium, 3 g fibre, 11 g protein.

    8. Chocolate milk

    This might seem like just something for kids, but it legit is a pretty great snack—especially for replenishing post-workout thanks to the simple carbs from the chocolate and the milk’s lactose.

    Make it: Stir 1 tablespoon chocolate syrup into 1 cup 2 per cent milk.

    Per serving: 728 kilojoules, 5 g fat (3 g saturated), 25 g carbs, 21 g sugar, 134 mg sodium, 1 g fibre, 8 g protein.

    9. White beans and olive tapenade

    “Lately, I’ve been obsessed with Kalamata olive tapenade,” says dietician Kendra Tolbert. “It’s a great combo of fibre, fat, protein and resistant starch that’ll keep you full and satisfied.” Tolbert eats it by the spoonful, but you can also scoop it up with a few whole-grain pita chips or cucumber slices.

    Make it: Mix 1 teaspoon tapenade with 1/2 cup canned white beans (drained and rinsed).

    Per serving: 728 kilojoules, 4 g fat (0 g saturated), 20 g carbs, 1 g sugar, 121 mg sodium, 6 g fibre, 6 g protein.

    10. Dates and pistachios

    “It’s the usual fruit and nuts combo, but a little more sophisticated,” says Tolbert. Dates have a honey-like sweetness, which combines with the strong flavour of pistachios into a snack that feels like dessert.

    Make it: Combine 2 pitted dates with 2 tablespoons pistachios.

    Per serving: 891 kilojoules, 7 g fat (1 g saturated), 40 g carbs, 33 g sugar, 35 mg sodium, 5 g fibre, 4 g protein.

    11. Edamame with sea salt

    Plotkin loves sprinkling edamame, in its shell or out, with a bit of sea salt. In addition to plant-based protein, you get fibre and a good dose of potassium.

    Make it: Drizzle 1/2 cup shelled edamame with 1 teaspoon olive oil and a pinch of sea salt.

    Per serving: 586 kilojoules, 8 g fat (1 g saturated), 8 g carbs, 2 g sugar, 481 mg sodium, 1 g fibre, 8 g protein.

    12. PB-chocolate apple ‘nachos’

    This sounds crazy-indulgent, but it’s actually a well-balanced snack, says Plotkin. You’ll get protein and lots of fibre, which will help slow the digestion of the little bit of added sugar from dark chocolate (preventing a mid-afternoon crash).

    Make it: Thinly slice a medium apple, then drizzle them with 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter and 15g melted dark chocolate.

    Per serving: 1058 kilojoules, 13 g fat (4 g saturated), 35 g carbs, 25 g sugar, 74 mg sodium, 7 g fibre, 4 g protein.

    Buttanutt Peanut Butter

    This creamy nothing-but-nuts mix smooths over everything from oats to crackers.

    Simple Truth Smooth Peanut Butter

    This roasted peanut butter has no sugar added.

    Faithful To Nature Crunchy Peanut Butter

    This crunchy peanut butter adds texture, taste & plant-based nutrients to your meals.

    13. Microwave egg taco

    Get creative with your microwave and make a tasty snack with enough protein to carry you to your next meal.

    Make it: “Crack one egg into a microwave-safe mug and cook for 90 seconds,” says Plotkin. Immediately stir in 15g shredded cheddar, then serve inside a small whole-wheat tortilla.

    Per serving: 761 kilojoules, 10 g fat (5 g saturated), 11 g carbs, 1 g sugar, 360 mg sodium, 3 g fibre, 11 g protein.

    14. Roasted chickpeas

    “If you’re craving something salty and crunchy, roasted beans are a much better option than chips thanks to their combo of protein and fibre, says dietician Jessica Levinson.

    Make it: Rinse and drain a can of chickpeas, then toss them with 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, pepper, and whatever spice you want. Roast at 400° F for 30 minutes. Let cool slightly, then eat. One batch makes three servings.

    Per serving: 669 kilojoules, 8 g fat (1 g saturated), 17 g carbs, 2 g sugar, 292 mg sodium, 4 g fibre, 5 g protein.

    15. Almond butter crackers

    “Peanut butter crackers serve as a quick option for people on the run, but the pre-packaged snack can have many hidden ingredients and kilojoules,” says dietician Shamera Robinson. DIY it instead.

    Make it: Spread 1 tablespoon almond butter (or any nut or seed butter) between 28g whole grain crackers.

    Per serving: 974 kilojoules, 12 g fat (2 g saturated), 23 g carbs, 2 g sugar, 227 mg sodium, 5 g fibre, 8 g protein.

    16. Homemade popcorn

    “Popcorn is a great snack to fill up on,” says Robinson, thanks to all the fibre. And you don’t have to stick with the plain stuff, either. “Try sprinkling garlic powder and dried rosemary (or Italian seasoning) for extra flavour,” suggests Robinson.

    Make it: Pop 3 tablespoons of popcorn kernels in 1/2 Tbsp canola oil in a large saucepan on the stove. Top with your favourite herbs or spices.

    Per serving: 674 kilojoules, 6 g fat (1 g saturated), 28 g carbs, 0 g sugar, 15 mg sodium, 5 g fibre, 4 g protein.

    17. DIY tzatziki dip with veggies

    Greek yoghurt is a great high-protein snack that is usually sweet. However, you can easily turn that into a savoury snack by making tzatziki.

    Make it: Add grated cucumber, salt, pepper, crushed garlic and lemon juice to 1/2 cup low-fat Greek yoghurt. Use 1 cup carrot or cucumber sticks for dipping.

    Per serving: 594 kilojoules, 3 g fat (1 g saturated), 18 g carbs, 9 g sugar, 395 mg sodium, 4 g fibre, 9 g protein.

    18. Cottage cheese with almonds and honey

    “This creamy-crunchy-sweet combo is second to none,” says Robinson. The cottage cheese is rich in protein, while almonds add crunch and healthy fats. And a hint of honey makes things sweet without going overboard on added sugar.

    Make it: Top 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese with 2 tablespoons slivered almonds and 1 teaspoon honey.

    Per serving: 820 kilojoules, 10 g fat (2 g saturated), 12 g carbs, 10 g sugar, 363 mg sodium, 2 g fibre, 17 g protein.

    19. Biltong with raisins

    “The ideal snack is portable and packed with satisfying lean protein,” says dietician Nicole Rodriguez. Biltong fits the bill, and most brands pack a good amount of protein for less kilojoules. Look for lower salt varieties. Pair with raisins for some energising carbs and filling fibre.

    Make it: Combine 28g biltong with 2 tablespoons raisins.

    Per serving: 615 kilojoules, 1 g fat (1 g saturated), 19 g carbs, 3 g sugar, 390 mg sodium, 1 g fibre, 15 g protein.

    20. Pear and stringy cheese

    If you love fancy cheese plates for their combination of sweet, salty, and creamy flavours, you’ll love this less-fussy snack. Pears have natural sugar and lots of fibre, while stringy cheese (you can get it at Woolies) is an easy way to get some satiating fat and protein in on the go.

    Make it: Slice one medium pear. Eat with one low-fat stringy cheese.

    Per serving: 761 kilojoules, 6 g fat (4 g saturated), 27 g carbs, 17 g sugar, 172 mg sodium, 6 g fibre, 8 g protein.

    This article was originally published on www.womenshealthmag.com More

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      These Pistachio Energy Balls Are The Perfect Snack

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      Are you tired of the same old snacks that leave you feeling sluggish and unsatisfied? Look no further than these delicious and nutritious Pistachio Energy Balls! Packed with protein, fibre, and healthy fats, these energy balls are the perfect snack to keep you fueled and satisfied throughout the day. Not only are they amazeballs, but they’re also incredibly easy to make.

      Per ball: 86 cal, 6 g fat (0.5 g sat), 2 g protein, 33 mg sodium, 8 g carb, 3.5 g sugars (0 g added sugars), 2 g fibre

      Pistachios offer some pretty legit health benefits

      They’re a solid source of fibre

      Pistachios are lower in calories than most nuts

      Packed with antioxidants

      Pistachios may help you sleep better

      Pistachios’ healthy fats support long-term health

      Pistachio Energy Balls

      These protein-packed energy balls are the perfect on-the-go snack.

      Course Snack

      Calories 86 kcal

      1 Food processor
      3/4 cup shelled pistachios1 tbsp sesame seeds1/4 cup slivered almonds1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped1/4 cup tahini1/4 tsp kosher salt2 Medjool dates, pitted
      Heat oven to 200°C. Arrange pistachios, sesame seeds, and almonds on a rimmed baking sheet, making sure to keep them separated. Roast until toasted, 3 to 5 minutes. Cool slightly.In a food processor, pulse pistachios until coarsely chopped. Transfer ¼ cup to a small bowl and mix in sesame seeds. Set aside.Add remaining ingredients to food processor and pulse until finely ground. Mixture should stick together when pressed between fingers. Firmly roll into 1-inch balls, then coat in pistachio-sesame mixture. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to 5 days.

      Keyword energy balls

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      Easy No-Bake Oat Protein Balls To Fuel You Up For Your Next Race

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      Sometimes, the hardest time to stay on track with healthy eating is in-between meals. Make snack time healthy with this oat protein balls snack recipe. They’re easy to make and can be prepared during loadshedding. Grab one for your lunchbox or before race day for a little oomph.

      Oat Protein Balls

      Ingredients 

      1 cup whole rolled oats

      2/3 cup coconut flakes

      ½ cup peanut butter

      ½ cup chia seeds

      ½ cup cocoa nibs

      1/3 cup honey or maple syrup

      3 tablespoons coconut oil

      ½ teaspoon vanilla powder

      Method

      Mix everything together in a medium bowl.

      Chill for 45 minutes.

      Roll the mixture into balls and enjoy.

      Store in the fridge.

      Looking for more protein recipes?

      Loadshedding? Try this no-bake Caramel Cream Cheese Balls recipe

      Supercharge your morning with this Protein Berry Porridge recipe

      A breakfast staple, try one of the 26 Protein Pancakes recipes

      Add To Cart

      Lifestyle Food Oats Rolled

      R49 at Dis-chem

      Coconut Flakes 250 g

      R59 at Woolworths

      ButtaNutt Peanut Butter

      R34 at Faithful to Nature

      Nature’s Choice Maple Syrup

      R185 at Faithful to Nature

      Vanilla Powder

      R78 at Woolworths

      Faithful to Nature Chia Seeds

      R79 at Faithful to Nature

      Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. More

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      The Only Loaded Nachos Recipe You’ll Ever Need

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      You Can “Read” While You Make This Loaded Nachos Recipe

      If you promised you’d read more this year but have found your bookshelf doing little more than collecting dust, this is for you. Meet your new BFF — Blinkist. This app condenses non-fiction books into 15-minute audiobooks. So, you’ll be able to get at least one or two in while nailing this nachos recipe. Reading challenge, sorted!

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      Beef & Bean Loaded Nachos Recipe

      Loaded nachos are one of those dishes so delicious you can’t really choose a stand out ingredient. Between the guac, cheese, chips, beans, meat and more, with every layer you add, the more moreishs it becomes.This loaded nachos recipe might be the exception, though. The star of this show is the cheese. It’s a souped-up béchamel — saucy, stretchy and delicious. You’ll never want to make nachos any differently after trying this recipe.

      Prep Time 10 minsCook Time 30 mins

      Course Main CourseCuisine Mexican

      Servings 6 people

      1 Frying Pan1 Oveproof Dish
      1 tbsp Olive oil1 kg Beef mince1 tbsp Dried oregano2 tsp Ground cumin2 tsp Smoked paprika1 tsp Ground coriander1 Onion, chopped3 Garlic cloves, crushed1 tbsp Tomato paste (concentrated puree)400 g Tin black beans, drained and rinsed400 g Tin chopped tomatoes2 tbsp Sea salt100 g Corn chipsBig dollop of sour creamCheese Sauce500 ml Béchamel sauce mix125 ml Milk200 g Grated cheddar125 g Grated mozzarellaGuacamole3 Small avocados, roughly choppedJuice of 1 limet tsp Sea salt1 tbsp Spring onion, green part only, chopped1 tbsp Coriander, chopped1 tbsp Pickled jalapeño, choppedTomato Salsa2 Roma tomatoes, chopped1 Golden shallots, chopped1 tbsp Olive oil1 tsp Red wine vinegar1 tsp Sea salt1 tsp SugarOptional IngredientsA margarita Although this could be classed as essential
      Preheat the oven to 180°C. Heat the oil in a large frying pan over high heat and brown the mince for 5 minutes or so, breaking up any large lumps as you go.Add the spices, onion and garlic and cook for another 5 minutes until the onion has softened.Add the tomato paste, black beans and tinned tomatoes. Half-fill the tomato tin with water and swish it around, then add to the pan. Season with the salt.Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes so it reduces a bit. Meanwhile, for the cheese sauce, make the béchamel, adding the milk slowly until the sauce is smooth. Fold in the grated cheese until melted and combined. Mmmm.Transfer the mince mixture to an ovenproof dish and nestle the corn chips on top.Drop spoonfuls of cheese sauce over the meat and corn chips.Bake for 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.While that’s happening, make the guacamole by combining all the ingredients in a bowl.Ditto for the tomato salsa.Eat the nachos with the guacamole, tomato salsa and sour cream.

      Keyword beef, mexican dish, nachos More

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      This Vegetarian Recipe Makes The Perfect Movie Night Snack

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      There are many ways to enjoy this Boland water plant. This Asian-inspired vegetarian snack recipe wins every day. Here’s what you need to know about the South African delicacy.

      What Is A Waterblommetjie?

      Waterblommetjies (literally water flowers) are native to the Western Cape and grow in ponds. They grow in winter so if you’re eating seasonally like Ilse Van Der Merwe, creator of this recipe and author or Simply Seasonal, reserve this recipe for the cold, wet months.

      But how are these flowers actually eaten, you ask? Well, the most common way to use waterblommetjies is in the ultimate comfort food; a bredie. The delicate and earthy flavour of these little plants balance out the rich, fatty flavour of the lamb in the stew to make a tummy-warming meal.

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      And although bredie has been waterblommetjies’ claim to fame for centuries, this vegetarian snack recipe is sure to put it on the map as crispy, saucy, proudly South African snack. Now, all that’s left is to choose what you’ll be binge-watching tonight.

      Waterblommetjie Tempura With Aïoli And A Soy Dipping Sauce Recipe

      Chef’s Note: The two dipping sauces are a must, but if you’re only going to make one sauce, make the soy and ginger one.We all love a good shortcut and if you need one this is it: you can also use store-bought ponzu sauce as is, as a substitute.Want more proudly South African recipes? Get a copy of Simply Seasonal by Ilse Van Der Merwe.

      Prep Time 15 minsCook Time 20 mins

      Course Appetizer, SnackCuisine South African

      Servings 6 people

      1 Blender1 Whisk1 Small mixing bowl1 Wide pot
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      For the aÏoli, blend the yolks, lemon juice, mustard and garlic in a small blender with an open spout (or tall cup with a stick blender) and season with salt and pepper. Add the oil in a thin stream while blending continuously, until a thick mayonnaise is achieved. Set aside.For the soy dipping sauce, whisk all the ingredients together in a small mixing bowl. Set aside.For the tempura, rinse the waterblommetjies under running tap water, then bring about 1 cm of water to a simmer in a wide pot.Add the rinsed waterblommetjies, cover with a lid, and steam for 10 minutes. Remove from the pot and drain off the excess water. Set aside to cool slightly.In a mixing bowl, mix the cake flour and cornflour, season with salt and pepper and add the soda water. Mix with a fork or whisk – some lumps should remain.Heat 4–5cm of oil in a wide pot to 180°C (most of us don’t have a thermometer for this, so test a few drops of tempura batter to see if it sizzles). Dip each waterblommetjie into the batter to cover all sides, then place carefully into the oil. Fry in batches on both sides until golden (they won’t get very dark because of the cornflour) and fully cooked, then remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. Serve hot, with the aÏoli and the soy dipping sauce on the side.

      Keyword starter, vegetarian More