Healthy food can get a bad rap.
Dry chicken breasts and bland salads can make healthy eating feel like a chore.
Just dip them in natural peanut butter or roast them in the oven.
For many people on a diet, meal prep can be a little time-consuming, but worth it.
The part that can trip you up, though, is the snacks.
Popcorn actually contains polyphenols, an antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables.
“Polyphenols have been linked to a reduction in heart disease and certain cancers,” she shared withToday.
If you don’t have an air popper, no problem.
Just opt for a microwavable brand that does not add butter or salt.
Or make your own by placing about three to four tablespoons of kernels in a brown paper lunch bag.
Fold the bag to seal it and microwave for about2 to 3 minutes.
Try making your own version of cheese popcorn by tossing togethertwo cups of popcorn and one tablespoon nutritional yeast.
Red grapes are full of antioxidants and vitamins and are naturally sweet.
When you take them out, you will have a cool slushy treat.
One cup (about 25 grapes) isunder 100 calories!
Carrots with hummus
Fresh vegetables had to make a list of healthy snacks.
They give you that great crunch for a tiny amount of calories.
Hummus is made from chickpeas and can be a great source of plant-based protein.
Try breaking out the blender or food processor to make your own.
This recipe fromSteamy Kitchenlightens up traditional hummus by using plain yogurt instead of tahini.
One medium carrot has aboutfour calories, so munch away!
Try adding other veggies like celery, sliced bell peppers, and cucumbers for a beautifully colorful snack.
Gourmet toast
You might think it doesn’t get much blander than toast.
Gourmet toast is trending and can make for an interesting and tasty snack.
Megan from With Salt and Wit has completely stolen my heart with thiscaprese avocado toast.
Kristine from Kristine’s Kitchen satisfies your snack sweet tooth with thispear and almond butter toast with granola.
I had never considered topping toast with granola, but it is genius!
It gives this snack a satisfying crunch.
This is quickly becoming my go-to snack for that late afternoon crash.
Greek yogurt is a protein powerhouse, so it will keep you full until dinnertime.
An individual container of plain, nonfat Greek yogurt contains about100 calories.
Add 50 blueberries for just39 calories.
This way, my snack will taste better and contain a lot less sugar.
Buy a tub of plain nonfat Greek yogurt.
I like to mix mine with some peanut butter, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a little stevia.
Raw carrot sticks are just not going to do it.
Healthy oatmeal cookies to the rescue!
Because of its high fiber content, oatmeal has been linked to lower your risk factors forcoronary heart disease.
To make your own healthy cookies, combine one cup of uncooked oats with two ripe, mashed bananas.
Drop tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto a greased cookie sheet and bake at350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes.
you’ve got the option to customize these anyway you like.
Try adding your favorite nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips for the perfect sweet craving.
These are great for breakfast the next morning, too.
