Are you looking for some filling low carb, high protein snack ideas to help with weight loss? Trying keto but wondering what low carb snacks you can eat? Read on for my top 10 list of super quick, easy and healthy low carb snacks!
In this article, I’m going to show you how to snack like a pro on low carbohydrate snacks that are not only healthy, but also delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re trying to shed some pounds, manage your blood sugar levels, or just looking for a guilt-free snack to munch on, I’ve got you covered.
So bring your snack game to the next level and let’s dive in!
Why Choose a Low Carb Snack?
Low carbohydrate snacks are like the superheroes of the snacking world. Choosing low carb snacks can have numerous benefits:
- No more blood sugar spikes: High-carb snacks can leave you feeling like a zombie, with your energy levels crashing after a sugar rush. But low carbohydrate snacks keep your blood sugar levels steady and your brain sharp.
- Weight loss made easy: If you’re trying to lose weight, low carbohydrate snacks are your secret weapon as they are generally lower in calories than carbohydrate snacks, they make you feel fuller for longer due to being higher in protein and help you to conquer cravings. If you follow a very low carb diet you may enter a state called ketosis which leads to fat burning.
- Reduced risk of chronic diseases: A diet high in carbohydrates, especially refined carbohydrates, has been linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. By reducing your carbohydrate intake and choosing low carbohydrate snacks, you can help to reduce your risk of these diseases and improve your overall health.
The Downside of Snacking on the Wrong Foods
Many of us snack these days and use it as a way to keep hunger at bay in between meals. This is fine as long as you’re snacking on healthy nutritious foods. Be careful though if you’re more prone to grabbing processed foods or snacks that are high in sugar and refined carbs as they are not going to do your body any favours.
Snacking on high carb foods will spike your blood sugars and give you a short term energy boost, but what goes up must come down, and as your blood sugar crashes you will crave more sugar and unhealthy foods again. If you’re someone who relies on coffee and often craves sugary or high carb snacks then you may be riding this glucose rollercoaster. You may experience bloating, gas, indigestion and dental problems. Another significant side effect of eating this way is weight gain. A recent survey in England found that almost 75% of adults aged 45 to 74 are overweight or obese.
Tips for Choosing Low Carb Snacks
When it comes to choosing low carbohydrate snacks, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you’re getting the best options:
Read food labels
It’s important to read the nutrition label on any packaged snack you’re considering. Look for the total amount of carbohydrates per serving size, as well as the amount of fibre. Subtracting the fibre from the total carbs will give you the “net carbs,” which is the number of carbs that your body actually absorbs. Try to choose snacks with a lower net carb count.
Look for snacks with less than 10 grams of carbohydrates
As a general rule of thumb, aim for snacks with less than 10 grams of carbohydrates per serving. This will help you stay within your daily carbohydrate limit if you’re following a keto diet, and prevent any blood sugar spikes.
Avoid processed and high-sugar snacks
Many processed snacks are loaded with refined carbohydrates and added sugars, which can quickly add up your carb count and lead to unhealthy blood sugar levels. Avoid these types of snacks and opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible. Instead of sugary snacks, try to incorporate snacks with healthy fats, such as nuts or seeds, which can help you feel fuller for longer.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be able to choose low carbohydrate snacks that will support your health and well-being. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new snacks and flavours to keep things interesting and enjoyable!
My top 10, easy to prepare, low carb snacks for weight loss:
1. NUTS
Nuts are packed with nutrients, including protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. They are also rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against cellular damage. They are high in unsaturated fats which can help protect your heart health. While they will promote feelings of fullness and are a satisfying snack, be aware of keeping the portion size small, as they are also relatively high in calories. A small handful of almonds, walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds all make an excellent low carbohydrate snack.
2. EGGS
I often keep a few hard boiled eggs in the fridge as a snack. They are a very filling snack on their own, are packed with protein, vitamins and minerals, and are only around 90 calories each.
Egg muffins: these are a great make ahead snack to keep in the fridge. Whisk together 6 eggs, 2 chopped spring onions, ½ tsp smoked paprika and 25g grated cheddar. Brush a muffin tin with oil. Fill the muffin holes with the mixture and top with 25g of grated cheddar. Bake at 180C for 15 minutes. Try adding some pre-cooked veg (peppers, broccoli, sweetcorn etc) to the mix for added flavour and vitamins.
3. TURKEY ROLL UPS
Take a slice of turkey and spread with cottage or cream cheese plus a couple of veggie sticks. Roll up and enjoy!
4. VEGGIES AND GUACAMOLE
Vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and celery are low in carbohydrates and high in fibre. Pair them with a dip made from hummus or guacamole for a tasty snack.
5. GREEK YOGHURT
Greek yoghurt is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it an ideal snack option. Add some berries or nuts for extra flavour and nutrition.
6. LETTUCE CUPS
fill a few lettuce leaves with mashed avocado, cottage cheese or some liver pate and a sprinkling of pumpkin seeds.
7. CELERY STICKS WITH ALMOND BUTTER
Simply cut celery sticks into bite-size pieces and spread almond butter on top for a delicious and satisfying snack.
8. CUCUMBER AND HUMMUS
Slice up some cucumber and dip it in hummus for a tasty and nutritious snack.
9. TUNA AND AVOCADO SALAD
Mix canned tuna with mashed avocado, chopped tomato, and a squeeze of lime juice for a quick and easy snack.
10. TUNA LETTUCE WRAPS
Mix canned tuna with mayonnaise, diced celery, and onion, then wrap it in a lettuce leaf. Add some kimchi for extra kick and probiotics.
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