As soon as we hear the word snacks, what comes to our mind are potato chips, pizza rolls, burgers, sandwiches and lots of such food items that do satiate our hunger but do not do contribute to the health of a person in any manner. In fact, these food items that we generally term as junk foods are not good for the health and have many adverse affects on the health. These food items are usually high in fat content and cannot be assimilated by the body easily. Eating junk food as snacks has somehow become a trend that must be done away with as soon as possible. Some adverse health effects associated with junk food include obesity, memory degeneration, increase in cholesterol levels and higher risk of health diseases.
So, next time your stomach needs something to eat at odd hours, avoid taking these unhealthy food items and try one of these healthy snacks.
- Hard boiled eggs: Eggs are usually available in all households and are easy to boil. Eggs are known to be very nutritious. Boiling an egg does not make the egg lose any of its nutrients. Eating boiled eggs can be very good for the overall health of a person. These do not only lower the cholesterol levels but also strengthen the immune system. Boiled eggs are also good for the cardiovascular health. Hard boiled eggs must be eaten with the yolk as the yolk contains lots of vitamins and a nutrient choline. Choline is essential for the production of acetylcholine which is a neurotransmitter that maintains the function of the brain and is also a memory booster. Eggs are the richest source of proteins essential for balanced growth and development of the body.
- Toasted pita bread with hummus: Pita bread is very low in its fat content and so can be eaten without any concern on the fat front. In addition, it has a sufficient quantity of iron, calcium and other minerals essential for the overall health. Made from whole grains, pita bread is also rich in fibers. Hummus made from chickpeas is a very healthy snack. Chickpeas are rich in protein and dietary fibers. In addition, they also contain many nutrients that help in managing the blood cholesterol levels.
- Mixed nuts with dry fruits: Mixed nuts and dry fruits are super-foods that when combined as a snack can be the healthiest food that one can intake. Both dry fruits and nuts contain essential vitamins, minerals, proteins and omega-3 fatty acids. All these nutrients promote the overall health. They help to keep heart diseases at bay and also help to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Nuts and dry fruits also prevent anemia and are good for the brain. These are immunity and memory boosters.
- Dark chocolate blueberry cookies: These cookies which are a mixture of dark chocolate, blueberry, oats and almonds are no less than a super-food. Packed with a heavy dose of nutrients, these cookies can be enjoyed as a snack at any time of the day. Blueberries and almonds are rich sources of antioxidants, minerals, proteins and other essential nutrients that protect the brain from degeneration, prevent heart diseases and promote heart health. These have anti- inflammatory properties as well. Oats are possibly the richest source of dietary fibers that are essential for the proper functioning of the body.
- Sushi: Although, Japanese cuisine is not for every taste bud, sushi made with salmon as a healthy snack is a winner. Salmon is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids as well as DHA. Omega-3 fatty acids are great for the overall health as well as the functioning of the brain. DHA promotes motor skills as well a brain function. In addition, salmon provides the body all essential proteins, minerals and vitamins.
- Honey glazed almonds: Honey glazed almonds are a perfect snack for fighting midday hunger effectively. Almonds are rich source of Vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, potassium, proteins, fibers are naturally low in sugar. Almonds promote heart health, prevent weight gain and also fight diseases like diabetes. Honey with its antiseptic and anti- bacterial properties has many health benefits. Honey energizes the body, boosts immunity, heals cuts and wounds and also helps in fighting cancer.