Whether you’re dieting or simply trying to cut back on unhealthy processed treats, it can be challenging to keep energy levels high. There’s no question that sugary goodies and carbohydrate-rich snacks can provide an energy jolt. But the liveliness you get from unhealthy foods is only temporary. It is almost always followed by an energy crash that can leave you more tired than you were before.
If you’re looking for a healthier and more lasting source of oomph, it’s better to rely on complex carbohydrates and nutrient-rich foods. These types of snacks will feed your body’s cells and deliver steady vigor throughout the day. Here are five healthy snack ideas that can supply your body with energy and satisfy your cravings.
1. Super Greens Drink
Most people find it challenging to get all the greens their body needs in their daily meals. But failing to eat sufficient vegetables can be detrimental to your health and energy levels. Vegetables contain many different vitamins and minerals to keep your mitochondria — energy-producing cells — fed. It’s especially important to consume foods containing B vitamins, which play an essential role in adenosine triphosphate production. As you may recall from high school biology, ATP is the energy-carrying molecule within cells.
One of the quickest and easiest ways to up your intake of vitamin-rich vegetables is to make a super greens drink. Instead of washing, chopping, and cooking or steaming your vegetables, you can simply pour your veggies into a glass and drink. If the thought of drinking vegetables makes you feel a little queasy, don’t reject the idea just yet. You can find a super greens powder that contains both energy-supporting vegetables and great-tasting fruits that provide delicious flavor.
2. Banana With Peanut Butter
Bananas are rich in potassium, complex carbohydrates, and fiber. These are all important components of sustained energy. Bananas are also a good source of natural sugar. Refined sugars in candies and other sweets give you a quick boost but then leave you feeling worse off than before. Bananas don’t have that same effect because they contain fiber that slows down the body’s digestion of the natural sugars they provide.
Combining a banana with peanut butter is a great way to help you stay fuller longer. Peanut butter is a protein-rich food that contains healthy monounsaturated fat. Both protein and fat help to increase feelings of satiety so you’re less likely to crave unhealthy snacks. But be careful when choosing between the different peanut butter brands. Always check the ingredients label to make sure you’re not getting a product that’s full of added sugars and fillers.
3. Trail Mix
Trail mix is a versatile snack that’s a staple for hikers and other active individuals. Besides being a highly convenient and tasty food, it’s also a flavorful choice for sustained energy. There are many different types of trail mixes out there, and some are healthier than others. Here are a few tips for selecting the best trail mix varieties to keep your body going.
First, look for trail mixes that combine carbohydrates and fiber (such as raisins and other dried fruits). The fiber will slow down digestion so you get a slow and steady release of energy instead of a quick spike and crash. Next, check the nutrition label to make sure seeds or nuts make up the top three ingredients. You don’t want M&Ms, chocolate morsels, or other unhealthy ingredients to appear at the top of the ingredients list. Finally, make sure there are no more than 5 grams of sugar and 300 mg of sodium per serving.
4. Veggies and Hummus
Vegetables and hummus are a match made in heaven. The nutrients and complex carbohydrates in vegetables help fuel your body throughout the day. Hummus is a smooth and delicious puree made from chickpeas and tahini. Chickpeas are rich in both fiber and protein and can thus help with satiety and weight management. You can make your own hummus or get prepared hummus from the grocery store. As with all other snack foods, check the ingredients list to make sure the product you choose is low in sugars and sodium.
While you can dip a variety of veggies in hummus, carrots and celery sticks are some of the easiest options. They taste great, require very little preparation, and have a great crunch that pairs well with the creamy hummus texture. Plus, they both contain B vitamins, which play an important role in converting macronutrients into energy.
5. Hard-Boiled Egg
Hard-boiled eggs are not only delicious and filling, but they also contain muscle-supporting protein. That’s important because lean muscle is associated with improved metabolic function. Your metabolism is a complex system of chemical processes that occur in your body at a cellular level. These chemical reactions help turn the foods and drinks you consume into energy. Lean muscle mass helps to support a healthy metabolism that produces energy efficiently.
A single hard-boiled egg contains about 6 grams of protein. It also contains various energy-boosting nutrients such as vitamin B12, vitamin B2, and selenium. For all the nutrients they contain, hard-boiled eggs are also surprisingly low in calories. They provide sustained energy and fullness but only contain about 77 calories. Therefore, they are a great snack choice for anyone who’s watching their weight.
Dieting is often associated with fatigue and intense cravings, but it doesn’t have to be. You can be healthy and manage your weight while staying energetic and lively. The key is to eat healthy, nutrient-dense snacks that keep your body feeling full and well-fueled all day long.
Angela Spearman is a journalist at EzineMark who enjoys writing about the latest trending technology and business news.
