Get ready for guilt free craving. Replace chips with healthier snacking options.

Introduction to Healthier Snacking and Guilt Free Craving

While striving for a healthy lifestyle, one aims to have perfect lunch as well as dinner options, keeping a healthy lifestyle in mind. However, cravings often arise in the evening when others indulge in tea, prompting a desire for a healthier snacking.

We do have a lot of healthier options that give the same level of satisfaction as a packet of potato chips, but unfortunately, many of us are not aware of them. One may not realize the significant impact on the human body when replacing an unhealthy snack with a healthier option.

How does a packet of potato chips impact the human body?

Regardless of whether chips are baked or fried, low cholesterol or high cholesterol, they still contain high levels of sodium, making them highly unhealthy. Even children, often rewarded with chips by their parents for good behaviour, may not realize that the sodium content in chips can contribute to high blood pressure and hypertension later in life. The sodium levels in these snacks even exceed the daily recommended intake of salt. Other than salt, these snacks are a combination of sugar and oil fat, which are considered major factors for cholesterol and even obesity.

Taste is important, but so is health. Daily habits shape our lifestyle. The good news is that nowadays, with so many food innovations and ideas, healthier snacks do not even taste bad. They taste as good as, sometimes even better than, snacks with high sodium and oil content. Let me introduce you to 5 healthy options which will definitely satisfy your hunger and let you have the experience of guilt free munching.

1. Sukha bhel: It can be made easily at home with whole wheat puffed rice. Add tomato, onions, cucumber and carrots for minerals and fibres. Sprinkle some chaat masala and green homemade coriander chutney for taste. The delicious sukha bhel will be ready with 160 calories.

2. Home-roasted makhanas: Roasted makhana is a healthy snack option as it is low in calories and fat, making it suitable for weight management. It is a good source of protein, fibre, and calcium. Makhana, also known as fox nuts, originally hailing from India, is gaining popularity abroad due to its extensive health benefits. A spoonful of ghee needs to be mixed in a bowl of makhanas. Either roast it in a pan on low flame or put it in the air fryer for 10 minutes. The delicious makhana will make you addicted to them. Even TOI posted a news that they can be helpful to fight COVID-19 in 2020

3. Chana chaat: Chana (chickpeas) are a rich source of plant-based protein, making chana chaat a filling and satisfying dish. Chana chaat is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from ingredients like tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, and spices, contributing to overall health and well-being. In 2 cups of soaked chana, add chopped tomatoes, onions, cucumber, green chilli, fresh coriander leaves and a tablespoon of lemon. Crushed papad or green chutney can also be added for extra flavour.

4. Mixed nuts: Create your own healthier snacking by combining a variety of unsalted nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pistachios with dried fruits such as raisins, apricots, and cranberries for a nutrient-dense snack that provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. A perfect way to fill guilt free cravings

5. Avacado toast: Avocados are high in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which is beneficial for heart health. These healthy fats can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol levels. Despite being calorie-dense, avocados can be beneficial for weight management due to their high fibre and healthy fat Content. Including avocados in meals may help increase feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake. Top whole-grain toast with mashed avocado and a sprinkle of sea salt, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice for a creamy and satisfying snack loaded with healthy fats, fibre, and vitamins. A perfect Healthier snacking and guilt free craving that will replace your toast

There are numerous tasty healthier snacking options available that can help you maintain a low-calorie intake, promote a healthy lifestyle, and Guilt free craving ultimately contributing to a healthier future. All it takes is a bit of creativity and willingness to explore different foods, which is simpler than it may appear.

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