Making healthy food choices doesn’t have to be boring or restrictive. In fact, there are plenty of delicious and nutritious snacks that you can enjoy without derailing your health goals. If you’re looking for some satisfying options that won’t leave you feeling deprived, try these 15 tasty treats, all clocking in at under 200 calories.
First up, we have everyone’s favorite fruit: bananas. At around 100 calories each, bananas are a convenient and portable snack that provides your body with potassium and fiber. For a more filling option, slice a banana over a bowl of oatmeal (150 calories for ½ cup cooked oatmeal) and sprinkle on some cinnamon for added flavor. Speaking of cinnamon, this versatile spice can be your secret weapon when it comes to healthy snacking. Sprinkle it on apple slices (about 95 calories for a medium apple) or pear slices (about 100 calories for a medium pear) for a warm and comforting treat.
Nuts and seeds are also excellent choices for healthy snacks. A small handful of almonds (about 160 calories for 22 nuts) or pistachios (about 160 calories for 49 nuts) provides healthy fats, fiber, and protein to keep you satisfied between meals. Similarly, sunflower seeds (about 180 calories for ¼ cup) or pumpkin seeds (about 150 calories for ¼ cup) are nutrient-dense options that offer a satisfying crunch.
If you’re craving something savory, try roasting chickpeas. You can find canned chickpeas at most grocery stores; simply drain, rinse, and pat them dry before tossing them in a small amount of olive oil and your favorite spices. Roast them in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes, or until crispy. A ¼ cup serving of roasted chickpeas is only about 165 calories and packs both protein and fiber.
For a refreshing option, keep a stash of melon balls in your refrigerator. Use a small melon baller to create bites of watermelon, cantaloupe, or honeydew, which will provide hydration and important vitamins and minerals. A 1-cup serving of melon balls is roughly 60 calories, depending on the variety, so you can enjoy a generous portion.
Lastly, for a creamy and indulgent-tasting snack, whip up a chocolate avocado pudding. Simply blend a ripe avocado with cocoa powder, a touch of honey or maple syrup, and a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. This decadent treat will satisfy your sweet tooth without the added sugar and preservatives of store-bought pudding. A serving made with ½ of an avocado and 1 tablespoon each of cocoa powder and honey is approximately 185 calories.
So, there you have it—a variety of delicious and healthy snacks that you can feel good about enjoying. Remember, nutritious eating is all about balance and listening to your body’s needs. By incorporating these snacks into your routine, you’ll never feel deprived again. Happy healthy snacking!
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