Cutting out entire meals or going on an extremely strict diet is the wrong approach if you are trying to lose weight. Many studies have shown that a lack of nutrients can cause an abnormal desire for sugary food, so the action of ruling out certain foods will actually make you crave unhealthy foods even more. Instead, you need to replace some unhealthy snacks with better options. These healthy snacks will help you fight those inevitable cravings for sugary foods and keep you full between meals.
Bananas
Bananas are a healthy fruit, which contains carbohydrates and a wide variety of beneficial minerals, amino acids, as well as vitamin B6. B6 is particularly great because it helps our brains to produce serotonin, known as the satisfaction hormone. The yellow wonder fruit is great as a pre-workout food that will provide loads of energy before any exercise, and if you are a fan of cinnamon you can sprinkle some on top to have a healthy and quick snack loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Peanut butter
While cashew nut butter and almond nut butter are growing in popularity peanut butter is still the most popular option of all. Peanut butter is usually the cheapest option, is full of nutrients, and is simply delicious. I always have peanut butter on my shelf because it is so easy to use and is an incredibly versatile product as it goes well in many combinations and is a healthy snack if eaten in moderation. You must be careful though, as because the butter is derived from peanuts it is high in calories and could sabotage your diet, that’s why it is advised to be consumed only in small amounts. If you need a quick snack or are craving some sugar one of the best and easiest things to do is to slice an apple and drizzle it with some peanut butter on top. Really though, the options are endless. You can have peanut butter cookies, peanut butter smoothies, and much, much more. .
Avocado
Avocado is good for your hair, skin and can help with weight loss too. It has been regarded as a superfood for a long time and if you don’t have it as part of your diet already, you should consider it now. It has been proven that avocado is incredibly nutritious and loaded with healthy fatty acids, fiber, and more potassium than bananas. All of these benefits combined provide you with a delicious snack option. We included it on this list because similar to nut butter, it gives you that sensation of a full stomach for longer. Avocado contains all the minerals and amino acids to help with any cravings you might have, this is because your body is being nourished and receiving all the necessary nutrients.
Jerky
This is an item for those moments when you don’t have enough time to prepare anything or if the supermarket or grocery you are at is short on options. Beef jerky contains a lot of protein, which supports the body’s muscles and makes it a good post-exercise option. Although, it should only be consumed on limited occasions as it is a type of processed food and will have the same negative consequences on your body as other processed meat.
These are just a few suggestions that may help you to find ways to replace unhealthy food items instead of crash dieting or skipping meals. Other tips that you can add to your routine to help in this search for a healthier lifestyle are to eat every three hours, drink a lot of water, and always look for the food that will bring more benefits for your body and mind. You should avoid going on diets that will cause harm in the long term and increase compulsive food behavior or create unreal expectations.
