9 low-fat snacks that will help you lose weight
For those days when you’re chained to your desk and can't fight hunger cravings
By ELLE team June 15th, 2017
Know those days when it’s too early to have lunch but you just don’t have the energy for a coffee run? We do too, which is why we got celebrity chef and nutritionist, Zoe Bingley-Pullin to give us the scoop on the most convenient, feel-good snack options available, for those days when you’re chained to your desk and need a little perking up.
Swapping your Maggi and chips out for these low-fat snacks will help you cut hunger pangs and lose weight. Oh, and they don’t taste like feet, which is always a bonus.
9 low-fat snacks to kill hunger pangs
A small can of chickpeas
Chickpeas are a simple, plant-based protein and a fibre-rich snack, which will help reach your daily fibre target. Blend chickpeas with good quality olive oil, a pinch of turmeric, some crushed garlic and salt and pepper for a healthy plant-based dip. Chickpeas come in 95g cans, which is an optimal single serving size for work.
Small carton of coconut water
Coconut water is a healthy alternative to soft drinks when the 3pm sugar cravings hit. It also helps maintain your hydration, which is so important for concentration.
Can of wild salmon
This snack counts towards your daily omega-3 fatty acids intake and is packed with protein, which is sure to fire up the metabolism and control 3pm cravings. If you have skimped on protein and healthy fats at lunch, this snack will make up for it.
Brown rice crackers + mashed avocado
Whole grains contain zinc, and adequate zinc intake is essential to support a healthy mood. Fresh avocados contain vitamin B6, which also helps tackles stress, making this combo the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
Fresh figs and a handful of cashews
This snack is not only balanced in terms of carbohydrates, proteins and fat, it's also rich in magnesium. Adequate dietary magnesium may help support stress levels, making it a great afternoon snack option when you’re on deadline.
Fresh fruit and nut butter
Fruit is a great source of vitamins, minerals and fibre and the addition of nut butter helps to slow the absorption of sugars in the fruit and increase satiety. Nut butter’s also easily stored in your desk. If you’re prone to entering lunch in a state of starvation, this is a good morning snack choice.
Raw nut and seed mix
This fuss and mess-free snack offers a source of plant-based protein, antioxidants and healthy fats that are sure to curb that appetite until your next meal. A handful may also reduce sugar cravings. Walnuts in particular are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and as the brain is approximately 60% fat, they’re linked to improved mood.
From: ELLE Australia