When you’re feeling down or simply in need of a pick-me-up, it can be tempting to reach for comfort foods that are often high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
While they may provide temporary satisfaction, these types of foods can actually leave you feeling worse in the long run.
Thankfully, there are plenty of healthy snack options that can help boost your mood and provide your body with valuable nutrients. Here are ten ideas to try:.
1. Banana with Almond Butter
This simple snack combines the natural sweetness of a banana with the protein and healthy fats found in almond butter. Bananas are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that helps your body produce the feel-good hormone serotonin.
Almond butter is packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and protein.
2. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter
Apple slices with peanut butter are another classic snack that can help boost your mood.
Apples are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while natural peanut butter provides protein, healthy fats, and important minerals like magnesium and potassium.
3. Greek Yogurt with Berries
Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and probiotics, which can improve gut health and boost your immune system.
Topping it with fresh berries adds natural sweetness, fiber, and important antioxidants that can help protect against inflammation and oxidative stress.
4. Hummus with Carrots or Bell Pepper
Hummus is a flavorful dip made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. It’s high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, and can provide sustained energy to help you power through your day.
Pairing it with sliced carrots or bell pepper adds extra crunch and important nutrients.
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5. Trail Mix
Trail mix is a convenient and satisfying option that can be customized to your individual tastes and preferences. Selecting a mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit provides a variety of nutrients like protein, fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins.
Be mindful of portion sizes, as trail mix can be calorie-dense.
6. Hard-Boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are a quick and easy snack that are high in protein and important nutrients like choline, which supports brain function and mood. Sprinkle with salt and pepper or add to a salad for extra flavor and nutrition.
7. Edamame
Edamame is a type of soybean that is often served as an appetizer at Japanese restaurants. It’s a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and important minerals like iron and magnesium.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt or dip in a low-sodium soy sauce for extra flavor.
8. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is a decadent treat that can also provide some health benefits. It’s high in flavonoids, which can help improve circulation and protect against inflammation.
Look for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa to get the most benefits and limit portions to avoid excess sugar and calories.
9. Cottage Cheese with Cinnamon and Honey
Cottage cheese is a great source of protein and calcium, which can help improve bone and muscle health.
Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey provides natural sweetness and important antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and support immune function.
10. Turkey Roll-Ups
Turkey roll-ups are a simple and satisfying snack that combines lean protein with healthy fats and fiber. Simply roll up slices of deli turkey with a slice of cheese and raw veggies like spinach and bell pepper for a balanced and nutritious snack.
By incorporating these healthy snack ideas into your diet, you can boost your mood and energy levels while also providing your body with essential nutrients. Experiment with different combinations and portion sizes to find what works best for you.
