Summer is around the corner. And healthy summer snacks for weight loss seem almost impossible, what with ice cream and sugary drinks beckoning to you everywhere you look! While it seems blissful to float in that pool and keep sipping that not-so-healthy beverage, here are some great healthy summer snack ideas to consider. Why not avoid junk food even as you enjoy your summer snacks?
Ice cream, hot dogs, and sugary drinks are tough summer treats to resist. But eating these snacks every day can pack on the pounds. The good news is there are a lot of other choices for nutritious snacks that help you stick to your diet goals In fact I’ve put together a list of weight loss-friendly snacks you pack for any summer survival day.
Here are 10 easy and healthy summer snacks
1. Nuts
Nuts are great, healthy, and easy to pack for any adventure. Although they are high in fat, and eaten in moderation, nuts like almonds pack a wallop of nutrients: fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Almonds are heart-healthy and help you lose belly fat. A handful along with dried fruit and dark chocolate make a great trail mix on the go.
2. Grapes
Grapes can be high in sugar for a fruit but a handful can naturally satisfy your sweet tooth. Toss them in the freezer for a frozen delight to grab instead ice cream when the weather soars. A handful of grapes, about 1 cup, gives you a savory treat for under 100 calories.
3. Boiled eggs
This protein-rich food is low in calories, and carbs and is filling. One egg has just 70 calories, plus plenty of vitamins to keep you going. In fact, hard-boiled eggs are rich in protein and healthy fats to keep you full longer.
4. Raspberries and Greek yogurt
Looking for a decadent, nutritious snack? Combine 1 / 2 cup of plain Greek yogurt with a 1 / 3 cup of fresh raspberries. This 100-calorie snack is satisfying from the fiber found in the raspberries and the protein in the yogurt.
5. String Cheese
Trying to find something easy to pack to take to the beach for a healthy snack? Grab some string cheese. Depending on the brand, most varieties have less than 100 calories per serving. And they are a good source of protein and calcium.
6. Tuna
Pack a pouch of tuna in your cooler for a satisfying snack. These little powerhouse packs of meat contain 17 grams of tuna and a mere 70 calories per pouch. Try eating them with carrots, celery or as a lettuce wrap. Or mix in a tablespoon of hummus or avocado for a flavor boost.
7. Air Popped Popcorn
The classic nutritious low-calorie snack that satisfies almost everyone, air-popped popcorn fills you up for hours. One cup is just 30 calories, so go ahead and have 2 or 3 cups, just be sure to skip the salt.
8. Homemade Popsicles
You can find a few nutritious store-bought popsicles on the market, but making your own homemade fruit popsicles gives you control over the sugar content. All you need is a popsicle mold, a mixture of fruit and liquid, and the forethought to make them in enough time to freeze before your summer outing. You can find an abundance of homemade popsicle recipes online. Best of all, you get to indulge in a healthy summer snack that pleases everyone!
9. Fresh fruit
Let’s face it – no prep, no sweating in the kitchen and ready to eat–that is what you get with fresh fruit. Just cut (or not) and bite into the healthy goodness of fresh fruit packed with nutrition, minerals, and low-calorie. Also, fresh fruit and vegetables contribute to mental health.
10. Salads
Another healthy summer snack option is a salad with your favorite vegetable. Or even one. Mix and match and enjoy!
There you have it. Hopefully, these will get your ideas flowing on what healthy summer snacks to pack for your outing. Be creative and sensible, check out nutrient information, and don’t overindulge.
