Staying at home is the new normal and so is getting up every hour to snack. With your kitchen just a few steps away, wanting to munch on while working increases is simply irresistible.
The handy packet of chips and sugary savories are the usual, preferred picks, leaving you feeling guilty later (don’t forget how unhealthy these treats are for your body).
With the virus around, healthy eating has become more important than ever. While it may sound difficult, staying at home is an opportunity to develop healthy eating habits. You can start small by replacing unhealthy snacks with healthier alternatives.
Listed here are some easy-to-make healthy treats you can munch on guilt free.
#1. Roasted Chickpeas
Chickpeas are powered with a bunch of nutrients. They are especially rich in proteins and fibers, which aid in better digestion and improve immunity. Eating chickpeas also reduces the risk of chronic conditions including heart diseases and diabetes.
Additionally, they keep you full for a longer period, keeping hunger at bay. A tasty way to devour chickpeas is to roast them with olive oil and spices. Store this healthy, tasty snack so you can munch on some whenever hunger hits.
#2. Edamame
These immature soybeans are high in protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The green beans are traditionally served in soups, salads, noodle dishes, but they can also be eaten as a snack.
A versatile option, edamame can be tossed into different salads, made into a dip or simply steamed and coated with spices of your choice.
Edamame comes with a list of health benefits including maintaining cholesterol and sugar levels, preventing cancerous cells, and improving bone health.
#3. A Bowl of Fruits
Snacking doesn’t have to be complicated. A bowl of fresh fruits is a nutritious and simple way to satiate your hunger. Fruits are filling but are light on your stomach. This means bloating is out of the question.
Mix a bowl of apple, kiwis, choice of berries, bananas, etc. and munch them while working. On some days you can turn it into an oatmeal dish or simply sprinkle your favorite seeds on it. On others you can grate some dark chocolate to enjoy the healthy treats.
This nutritious fruit bowl is sure to keep health issues at bay.
#4. Plain or Flavored Almonds
Remember the days when your mom fed you soaked almonds everyday? Almonds are full of essential vitamins and minerals. They are rich in proteins, healthy fats, fibers and antioxidants, which help prevent health problems and aid in weight loss.
Keep a jar of almonds on your desk and grab a handful of them when you feel the need to snack. If you don’t like them plain, you can buy natural, healthy varieties at home. You can have chocolate almonds on days you need something sweet or smoky serrano almonds to fulfill your need for some spicy snack.
Mix them in salads with other nuts, or roast them to add a variety to your snacking menu at home.
#5. Pick a Dip
Dips come in handy when you want to relish something tasty in between work. With a range of dips like salsa, hummus, black bean, avocado, yogurt, etc. you have a variety for everyday. Not only are they healthy but are fully capable of satisfying your cravings.
Get some veggies like carrots, cucumber, and celery, pair them with a dip and you’re good to go. You can also dip nut crackers in it or simply spread the dip on multigrain bread slices to make a sandwich.
These healthy treats give you a burst of nutrients that improve your immunity and help you stay healthy.
#6. Spiced Avocados
One of the most nutritious foods on the planet, avocados are packed with fiber, potassium, magnesium and healthy fats. Whether you like them plain or as a spread or shake, avocados make for a healthy, yummy snack option.
An interesting way to have avocados is to spice them up. Cut an avocado or two into a bowl, add a pinch of salt, and season them with cayenne pepper. You can store this for days, and it comes in handy when you crave something smoking hot.
#7. Almond Butter Cookies
Who says sweet can’t be healthy? Make these delicious, healthy treats with nutritious ingredients.
Use all natural almond butter and replace refined sugar with raw coconut sugar. You can eliminate wheat flour to make it gluten free. Mix them with eggs, baking soda and sea salt. Bake the cookies and store them for future hunger pangs.
Unlike the unhealthy candies, snacking on them won’t add to any guilt.
Conclusion
Contrary to the myth, you don’t have to compromise on taste to stay healthy. While the presence of the deadly virus calls for healthy treats, eating a nutritious diet is a must even otherwise. If you’ve been wanting to adopt healthy eating habits, use these ideas and start now!
