When it comes to snacking, it can be hard to find a happy balance between indulging in something delicious and maintaining a heart-healthy diet.
But, with a little bit of creativity and some careful consideration, it is possible to find tasty and heart-healthy salty snacks that won’t leave you feeling guilty.
1. Nuts
Nuts are an excellent source of heart-healthy unsaturated fats, fiber, and protein. They are also incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a snack mix. Some great nut options include almonds, cashews, and pistachios.
2. Roasted Chickpeas
Roasted chickpeas are a great alternative to traditional potato chips. They offer a satisfying crunch and are packed with protein and fiber. They can also be seasoned with a variety of spices, such as cumin or chili powder, to add some extra flavor.
3. Edamame
Edamame, or soybeans, are another great source of protein and fiber. They can be enjoyed either warm or cold and can be seasoned with salt or other spices to add some extra flavor.
4. Air-popped Popcorn
Popcorn can be a great snack option, as long as it’s air-popped and not loaded with butter and salt. Air-popped popcorn is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a filling and heart-healthy choice.
5. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter
Apples are a great source of fiber and antioxidants, while peanut butter is packed with heart-healthy unsaturated fats and protein.
Combining the two makes for a tasty and fulfilling snack that is perfect for when you’re in need of something sweet and salty.
6. Veggie Sticks with Hummus
Vegetables such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers are high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a great snack option. Pairing them with hummus, which is made from heart-healthy chickpeas, adds some extra flavor and protein.
7. Jerky
Jerky, which is made from lean cuts of meat, is high in protein and low in fat. However, it is important to choose jerky that is low in sodium and doesn’t contain any added nitrates or nitrites.
8. Pickles
Pickles are a low-calorie snack option that is high in potassium, which can help lower blood pressure. However, it is important to choose pickles that are low in sodium, as many store-bought options can be high in this electrolyte.
9. Rice Cakes with Avocado
Rice cakes are a low-calorie and gluten-free snack option. Pairing them with heart-healthy avocado, which is high in monounsaturated fats, can add some extra flavor and nutrition.
10. Seaweed Snacks
Seaweed snacks are a low-calorie and nutrient-dense option that is high in iodine and other essential minerals. They are also low in fat and can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a snack mix.
Conclusion
Snacking doesn’t have to be unhealthy, especially when it comes to salty snacks. With a little bit of creativity and some careful consideration, it is possible to find heart-healthy options that won’t leave you feeling guilty.
Nuts, roasted chickpeas, edamame, air-popped popcorn, apple slices with peanut butter, veggie sticks with hummus, jerky, pickles, rice cakes with avocado, and seaweed snacks are all great options to consider.