Snacking, when done right, can be a great way to fuel your body throughout the day and prevent overeating during meals. However, unhealthy snack choices like chips and candy can derail your diet and leave you feeling unsatisfied.

This is where a healthy snack that satisfies cravings comes in.

What Makes a Healthy Snack?

A healthy snack should be nutrient-dense, meaning it provides a good balance of macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, and fat) as well as vitamins and minerals. It should also be low in added sugars and processed ingredients.

Examples of healthy snacks include:.

Fruit with nut butter
Veggies with hummus
Trail mix with nuts and seeds
Hard-boiled eggs
Greek yogurt with berries

The Perfect Snack to Satisfy Your Cravings

One snack that ticks all the boxes for a healthy snack that satisfies cravings is popcorn. Yes, popcorn! But we’re not talking about the buttered movie theater variety.

Plain popcorn is a whole grain that is naturally low in calories and high in fiber. A 3-cup serving of air-popped popcorn contains just 93 calories and 3.5 grams of fiber.

The high fiber content of popcorn makes it a filling snack that can help you stay satisfied between meals.

In addition to being low in calories and high in fiber, popcorn is also a good source of antioxidants.

Antioxidants are compounds that help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

How to Make Popcorn a Healthy Snack

While plain popcorn is a healthy snack choice, the way it’s prepared can make a big difference in its nutritional value. Here are some tips for making popcorn a healthy snack:.

Avoid microwave popcorn, which often contains unhealthy artificial flavors and excessive amounts of salt and oil.
Air-pop your popcorn or use a stovetop popper. This avoids adding unnecessary oils and fats.
Season with spices and herbs instead of butter or cheese. Try nutritional yeast, garlic powder, or paprika for a tasty, low-calorie flavor boost.

Conclusion

Snacking doesn’t have to be a guilty pleasure. By making healthy snack choices like popcorn, you can satisfy your cravings while fueling your body with the nutrients it needs.

So the next time you’re reaching for a bag of chips or a candy bar, try opting for a bowl of plain popcorn instead.