Snacking is often seen as the enemy of a healthy diet, but it’s actually a great way to keep your hunger at bay and your energy levels up. The key is to choose the right snacks.
Snacks that are good for your heart and kidneys are often rich in nutrients, low in salt, and low in saturated fat. In this article, we’ll take a look at some healthy snacks that you can enjoy without worrying too much about your heart and kidneys.
Fruit Salad
A fruit salad is an excellent option for a snack that is both delicious and healthy. Fruits are packed with nutrients and antioxidants that can help keep your heart and kidneys healthy.
Some of the best fruits to include in a fruit salad are berries, cherries, watermelon, kiwi, and grapefruit. These fruits are all rich in vitamin C, which is great for your immune system and can also help improve your blood pressure.
Veggies and dip
Vegetables are another fantastic source of nutrients that can help your heart and kidneys. When you’re looking for a healthy snack, try chopping up some veggies and serving them with a dip.
Hummus or guacamole are great options that are low in saturated fat and high in nutrients. Carrots, celery, and bell peppers are all great choices for dipping.
Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds are a great source of healthy fats that can help keep your heart healthy. Almonds, for example, are rich in vitamin E and can help improve your cholesterol levels.
Walnuts are another excellent choice, as they contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and kidneys. Pumpkin seeds are also a great option because they are high in iron and magnesium.
Hard-boiled eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are an excellent source of protein and can help keep you feeling full longer. They are also low in calories and rich in nutrients that can help keep your heart and kidneys healthy.
One hard-boiled egg contains about 6 grams of protein and is a great source of vitamins B12 and D.
Low-fat yogurt
Yogurt is a great source of protein and calcium, which are important for overall health. When you’re looking for a yogurt to snack on, try to choose one that is low in sugar and fat.
Greek yogurt is an excellent option because it contains more protein than regular yogurt. You can also add some fresh fruit or granola to your yogurt for extra flavor and nutrients.
Dark chocolate
Yes, you read that right. Dark chocolate is actually a great snack for your heart and kidneys. Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, which are antioxidants that can help improve your blood pressure and protect your heart.
Just make sure to choose a dark chocolate that is at least 70% cocoa and limit your portion sizes to one or two squares.
Hummus wrap
A hummus wrap is a filling and healthy snack that is perfect for when you’re on the go. Hummus is a great source of protein and fiber and can help keep you feeling full.
To make a hummus wrap, simply spread some hummus on a whole-grain wrap and add some chopped veggies like lettuce, tomato, and cucumber. Roll it up and enjoy!.
Baked sweet potato chips
If you’re craving something crunchy, try making some baked sweet potato chips. Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber and antioxidants and are a fantastic alternative to regular potato chips.
Simply slice a sweet potato thinly, drizzle with some olive oil, and bake until crispy.
Tuna and whole-grain crackers
Tuna is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and kidneys.
When you’re looking for a quick and easy snack, try mixing some canned tuna with a little bit of mayo or Greek yogurt and serving it with some whole-grain crackers. This is a great snack that is both filling and nutritious.
Cottage cheese and fruit
Cottage cheese is a great source of protein and calcium and can be a fantastic snack when combined with some fresh fruit. Berries, pineapple, and mango are all great options to pair with cottage cheese.
This snack is not only delicious but also provides you with the nutrients you need to keep your heart and kidneys healthy.