Healthy Snacks Via Vegan Diets
By Stephen R. Farris
When it comes to snacking, have you wanted to try something other than snacks made from meat or dairy products? If so, then look no further. Check out some of the delicious, healthy snacks you can make simply by following a plan from vegetarian diets.
Fresh Fruit and Nut Butter Dip
This is quick and easy to make, and it's healthy for you. Nut butters (cashew, almond, peanut, etc.) are packed with protein and healthy fats. Combine that with fresh fruit, especially any variety of sliced apples and you will have a great healthy snack.
Cheese Sticks
So yes, cheese is basically a dairy product, but it's allowable because cheese contains both protein and calcium, both essential for healthy bones. You can buy cheese sticks from your grocery store, or you can purchase it by the block and make your own at home.
Hummus and Bell Peppers
Hummus is low in calories and contains protein and fiber. Bell peppers contain Vitamins A and C, and they are fibrous. Like potato chips, bell peppers are crunchy, but low in calories and are healthier for you. Plus they come in cool colors. So it's a win-win when it comes to healthy snacking!
Roast Those Chickpeas
It's like roasting nuts, but instead, using chickpeas. You might not realize it, but chickpeas are bursting with nutritional value. They contain protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. You can also season them with cayenne pepper, garlic powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, or any favorite you have in the pantry to add more flavor. So keep that popcorn on the shelf for another time, and try roasting chickpeas for your next healthy movie watching snack.
Popcorn
If chickpeas aren't in your cupboard, then go ahead and grab that popcorn I told you to keep for another time. Hopefully, it's the kind that can be popped using a hot air popper, versus the pre-packaged variety since those could have unhealthy, added ingredients, and tend to be higher in calories. With air-popped popcorn, you can sprinkle in a dash of your favorite seasoning to make it more flavorful. By the way, popcorn contains minerals such as phosphorus, manganese, and zinc, as well as being a low-calorie snack.
The next time the snack urge hits you, then break away from the norm and try some of these options that won't "weigh down" your healthy eating habits.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Morrisville, N.C.