Ever find yourself staring at the snack aisle thinking, “What can actually keep me full without turning into a calorie bomb?” Yeah, me too. It turns out, some snack heroes aren’t just tasty—they’re packed with the kind of fiber, protein, and healthy fats that silence hunger and fuel your day like champs. From the creamy goodness of avocados paired with tangy tomatoes to crunchy almonds and juicy berries, these surprisingly simple foods might just be your new secret weapon against those pesky cravings. Ready to upgrade your snack game and feel fuller, longer? Let’s dive into the top picks that’ll keep you satisfied without the guilt. LEARN MORE
1
Avocados and Tomatoes
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The fatty acids and fiber found in avocados keep you full for longer. In fact, avocados eaters weighed less, had smaller waists, and lower body mass indexes, according to one study. Pair avocados with tomatoes, which are low in calorie but full of lycopene, an antioxidant that supports healthy blood pressure. Do this in guacamole with whole-wheat chips and you’ve got it.
2
Greek Yogurt
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Greek yogurt is great: one-half cup is loaded with probiotics, calcium, and 12 grams of protein. Stay away from cups that are high in added sugar. Your best bet: Buy plain yogurt and add fresh fruit and nuts.
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3
Oatmeal
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Oats aren’t just for breakfast, and individual cups are perfect snack drawer staples. Plus, they’ll keep you satisfied until dinner. In fact, people who ate instant oatmeal were less hungry and ate fewer calories at their next meal compared to people who ate cereal, according to a study. Just be sure to look for plain or low sugar options.
4
Apples and Peanut Butter
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If you crave sweets, there’s no better snack than fruit. Studies show that diets rich in fruits, like apples and pears, help with long-term weight loss. Slather a Honeycrisp variety with a little peanut butter for a satisfying mix of fiber, fat, and protein.
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5
Pitted Prunes
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Yeah, prunes! Each one is like a mini fiber bomb. A 100-calorie serving has three grams of the stomach-filling nutrient.
6
Almonds
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Almond-rich diets have been shown to help people lose weight and reduce their risk of heart disease. So stock up and toss them in your yogurt, DIY trail mix, or eat them straight-up.
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7
Pistachios
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Not a fan of almonds? Try pistachios instead. They are richer in flavor, but still offer plenty of health benefits. A 12-week study found that pistachio eaters had lower lipid levels, one indicator of high blood pressure. Pistachios are prefect on their own or added to a yogurt bowl.
8
Sweet Potato Toast
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For a different take on toast, cut and bake sweet potatoes over the weekend. Sweet potatoes have a high water content and plenty of fiber, which suppresses appetite. Top with ricotta and salt and pepper.
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9
Egg on Whole Grain
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If you prefer something more traditional, throw a slice of whole wheat in the toaster. Top with a hard boiled egg, and you have a satisfying mini meal.
10
Cottage Cheese
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Cottage cheese is one of the most overlooked foods in the grocery store. But here’s a reason to add it to your cart: one 5.3 ounce cup packs in roughly 16 grams of protein. Top with tomatoes, avocado, and a little salt and pepper for a savory treat.
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11
Brussel Sprouts
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Brussel sprouts are the perfect fiber-rich, filling, low-calorie snack you’re probably not eating. Whip up the cruciferous vegetable in a pan with salt and olive oil. Add a soft boiled egg for extra protein. If you like things spicy, chili flakes are a great topper and the capsaicin found in peppers has been shown to increase satiety.
12
Cucumbers
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Slice it, sprinkle on a little sea salt, and eat like chips. The vegetable is naturally high in water content, so it’ll help with hydration too.
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13
Pears
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Apples get all the credit, but these high-fiber fruits are just as portable and juicy.
14
Chickpeas
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Chickpeas are one of the healthiest legumes you can eat. A cup of garbanzo beans offer 18 grams of protein and includes every amino acid necessary for muscle growth. Roast them at home as a chip replacement or buy a pre-packaged bag that has minimal ingredients.
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15
Hummus
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If you’re not in the mood for crunchy, hummus is a great way to get your legumes in. Pair with your choice of veggies or whole grain crackers for a solid snack.
16
Beef Sticks
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Keep a bag of jerky sticks in your car or gym bag for an on-the-go snack. Grass-fed beef varieties include more heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids than other types of beef.
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17
Mozzarella and Tomato
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Caprese salad isn’t just a great appetizer. In fact, the salad is an easy afternoon snack since it’s only two ingredients. Top with salt, pepper, and a little olive oil for a boost of antioxidants and healthy fat.
18
Pineapple
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One cup of pineapple contains just over two grams of fiber. Use it to satisfy a sweet tooth.
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19
Carrots
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Two medium carrots have three grams of fiber. Dunk into hummus for even more.
20
Berries
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Berries of every variety, like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries, are perfect for dieters. They are low in calories, have tons of fiber as well as and vitamins and minerals.
Perri is a New York City-born and -based writer; she holds a bachelor’s in psychology from Columbia University and is also a culinary school graduate of the plant-based Natural Gourmet Institute, which is now the Natural Gourmet Center at the Institute of Culinary Education. Her work has appeared in the New York Post, Men’s Journal, Rolling Stone, Oprah Daily, Insider.com, Architectural Digest, Southern Living, and more. She’s probably seen Dave Matthews Band in your hometown, and she’ll never turn down a bloody mary. Learn more at VeganWhenSober.com.
Melissa Matthews is the Health Writer at Men’s Health, covering the latest in food, nutrition, and health.
Cori Ritchey, C.S.C.S., is the fitness editor at Women’s Health, as well as a certified strength and condition coach and group fitness instructor. She’s reported on topics regarding health, nutrition, mental health, fitness, sex, and relationships for several years. You can find more of her work in Men’s Health, HealthCentral, Livestrong, Self, and others.
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