Snacking healthily is a tricky road to tread on. Mindless snacking on empty carbs is common, especially when all you have in your pantry are overly-processed junk food. On the other hand, healthy snacks in the right proportion can help you stave off hunger pangs until the next meal.
But where can you find snacks that are healthy and easy to prepare, not to mention delicious and filling? Three words: keto vegan snacks. These plant-based snacks are proven to be healthier and full of nutritional value that your regular cookie doesn’t have. Vegan snacks are a great alternative to those small indulgences to fuel you throughout the day without the unwanted sugar and calories.
Many people think that vegan food is difficult and tedious to prepare. On the contrary, there are so many vegan snack staples to mix and match with other plant-based ingredients to create that yummy go-to finger food. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, low-carb, or keto diet, here are some vegan snack favorites you’d surely enjoy.
1. Kale chips
Kale is one of nature’s superfoods that we can snack on endlessly. It is packed with antioxidants that fight free radicals which can cause damage to our healthy cells. Kale is also rich in vitamins C and K, helping our bodies ward off viruses and infections. Furthermore, green leafy vegetables are known to be good sources of fiber that can aid with digestion. Snacking on this versatile vegan option gives you an alternative to unhealthy junk foods, especially if you’re craving something crunchy and savory. You can get your fix on kale chips with ready-to-eat varieties or you can make your own at home.
2. Trail mix
If you’re still looking for a crunchy snack to munch, then trail mix is the way to go. This popular vegan snack is a combination of nuts, seeds, some dried fruits, and sometimes even cacao nibs and coconut meat for added flavor. Trail mix contains a healthy serving of protein and fiber and can easily make you feel fuller. Much like kale chips, you can buy a vegan trail mix in the grocery or you can easily come up with your own at home.
3. Plain popcorn
Popcorn, sans the artificial flavorings, is perfect for your next movie night. Uncooked kernels are readily available in the grocery and you can simply pop them on a pan. Season your plain popcorn with salt or almond butter for added flavor. Popcorn is a great low-carb snack that can fill you up without the unnecessary calories.
4. Fruits
Fruits are the ultimate low-carb vegan snack long before diet trends and fads. Fresh fruits are full vitamins and minerals that your body will thank you for. It can help with digestion, boost the immune system, lower cholesterol can give you clear, smooth skin. Fruits are delicious and easy to prepare, making them a great option for snacking anytime and anywhere. Indeed, an apple (or any fruit) a day keeps the doctor away.
5. Vegan smoothie
If you want to switch up the way you consume your fruits and vegetables, you can give them a fresh new spin by making them into a smoothie. Perfect for a hot day, fruit and vegetable smoothies can not only quench your thirst but can also boost your metabolism, energy levels, and vitamin intake. Mix your favorite fruits and vegetables with almond or soy milk, some rolled oats, flax, or chia seeds for additional health benefits. Vegan smoothies can serve as your breakfast on-the-go or even as a pre, or post-workout drink.
6. Seaweed sheets
Though they don’t sound as appetizing, seaweed sheets as a vegan snack have grown in popularity over the recent years and for a good reason. Dried seaweed sheets are full of nice salty flavor without the added calories. It is a good source of protein, fiber, iron, and other vitamins and minerals.
7. Granola bar
Granola bars are another vegan snack staple that is filling and nutritious. It typically contains oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits and is perfect for busy days or whenever you would need an energy boost. Granola bars are chock-full of protein and fiber, as well as other vitamins and minerals. Nuts and oats are great for lowering cholesterol while fiber is good for one’s digestion. However, be careful when buying granola bars, as much of these are full of unnecessary sugar. The good news is that these are easy to make you can easily whip up your own granola bars.
8. Hummus
Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern dish that is made from chickpeas, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and sesame seed paste called tahini. Its distinct flavor makes it the perfect dip for whole wheat bread, vegan crackers, chips, and raw carrots and celery. Hummus is a good source of protein, vitamins B and C, and fiber, as well. It can also fight inflammation and even control blood sugar levels.
9. Roasted chickpeas
Aside from hummus, chickpeas or garbanzos, a great vegan snack on its own. Roasting chickpeas enhances its flavor and gives it a good crunch. Chickpeas are a good source of several vitamins and minerals. Because of its high protein and fiber content, chickpeas can help you stay full for a longer period. Moreover, it has a fairly low-calorie density, meaning it does not pack on the calories and yet it is packed with nutrients.
10. Dark chocolate
Who says chocolates are not healthy? Clearly, they haven’t encountered dark chocolates and clearly, they are missing out on this healthy vegan dessert. Pure dark chocolates are full of antioxidants that fight cell damage caused by free radicals. Dark chocolates that contain at least 70% cacao have also been proven to lower insulin levels while improving blood circulation. You can snack on dark chocolates, add them to your vegan low-carb pastries, or indulge on them for dessert. However, when buying dark chocolates, make sure that it does not contain milk or any animal products. Good thing Gutsii Swiss Dark Prebiotic chocolate bars from Gutsii Health are all-natural and raw, and most importantly, does not contain any non-vegan ingredients.
Vegan snacks do not need to be complicated, nor bland or boring. Vegan snacks are not just healthy but they are also filling and delicious. Try one of these snacks today and change up our snacking game.
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