Snacking is a great way to keep up energy on the go throughout the day between meals. Making sure that snacks are healthy increases the benefits and reduces the risk of crashing since high sugar snacks can often have that effect. While there are many snacks available that are high in sugar, including granola bars and even candy, these often spike blood sugar and contain unnecessary additives with little nutrition to fully satisfy your hunger and keep you feeling good afterwards. Here are a few low-sugar snacks to reach for when you’re feeling peckish.
Low sugar snacks
Nuts
A high protein snack that’s low in sugar are nuts. This is a healthy snack that is great for on the go snacking. There are many different kinds of nuts so you can try many different varieties to see which you like best. Another positive to consuming nuts is that they are great for anyone trying to avoid foods high in carbohydrates. However, it’s best to remember that the healthiest to consume are the unsalted versions!
Seeds
For those looking for a nut-free snack which is low in sugar, try seeds. Some seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals to fortify your diet. Not sure where to start? Try sunflower seeds: they’re high in vitamin E and flavonoids, which are anti-inflammatory.
Cheese
A snack high in calcium and protein, yet low in sugar is cheese. Foods with high calcium help reduce blood pressure, which will also help prevent heart disease when eaten in moderation. Make sure to reach for cheese that’s unprocessed; check out your local farmer’s market for flavorful varieties to snack on with whole grain crackers.
Olives
Olives contain antioxidants and are anti-inflammatory on top of being low in sugar. Another plus to snacking on olives is that this snack can help regulate your appetite, which can help people who tend to overeat.
Celery
A healthy, low-sugar snack that’s perfect for dipping is celery. This snack goes well with healthy dips such as hummus or nut butters. Though on its own, it is rich in vitamins and is low in calories at 14 per cup.
Kale chips
Kale chips are a popular snack full of antioxidants. You can snack on kale chips in different ways. This snack also has multiple vitamins and is a heart healthy snack, which is great for people who have a family history of heart disease.
Jerky
For those looking for a high protein snack that is filling, jerky is a good choice. For leaner options you can opt for turkey jerky or even fish jerky such as salmon. Make sure to get jerky without added sugar and if you’re following a low salt diet, avoid jerky all together.
Dr. Barbara Edwards, a Princeton MD is the Academic Director for the Ambulatory Residency Program at Penn Medicine Princeton Health, providing quality care to uninsured and under-insured New Jersey residents in Mercer and Middlesex counties.