Do you get those late-night cravings while Netflix & Chilling to just snack on something? It’s about that time when you ditch that packet of jellybeans or salted chips and switch over to superfoods snacks instead!
Packed in essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, superfoods snacks are the perfect way to satisfy your untimely cravings without compromising your health or fitness goals.
Since they’re quick to prep and easy to carry, they’re also the perfect healthy on-the-go snacks for busy people! These nutrient-dense foods improve your immune system, battle diseases, boost your brain and cognitive function, and give you naturally radiant skin.
Here’s why superfoods snacks are a guilt-free grazer:
- They’re packed with essential nutrients and contain few calories.
- They offer a wide range of benefits such as reducing inflammation, improving heart health, strengthening your immunity system and improving gut health.
- Since they’re natural, unprocessed and wholefoods, they contain fewer additives, artificial flavors, sugars or sodium, preventing problems such as irregular blood pressure and high sugar levels.
- As they’re loaded with protein and fiber, they keep you satiated, preventing pangs of uncalled-for hunger.
- They function as mood-boosters, making you feel energetic and generally good.
So, are you in-bed or rushing to work? Just grab a handful of these bites and stay guilt-free! Looking for gluten-free options? Check out these 5 healthy snack options!
1. Walnuts
If you like a little bit of crunch in your munch, then walnuts are perfect for you! They’re loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, phytosterols and antioxidants, which makes them a perfect healthy snack.
They’re known for improving brain health and reducing risks of heart diseases, keeping you fit and active in the long run.
Why A Superfood Snack?
- They’re not only fun to eat, they can also be eaten anytime, anywhere – with fruits, vegetarian salads or just as they are!
How To Have Them?
Make Walnut Stuffed Dates:
- Pit 3 dates and slice them in half.
- Stuff each half with a walnut inside.
- Season them with sea salt.
- This is a 150 calorie treat.
2. Almonds
Loaded with fatty acids, fiber, protein, Vitamin E, riboflavin, manganese, magnesium, copper and phosphorus, almonds are a great source of fiber, improving your overall health. In addition, studies reveal these nuts improve your heart health by controlling your cholesterol levels, regulating your blood sugar and keeping you satiated to lower your hunger levels.
Why A Superfood Snack?
- Easy to carry and satiating, these crunchy nuts are perfect for a handful of snacking while you’re driving, walking or watching a movie.
Improve your immunity, gut and joint health, and heart function with these 5 anti-inflammation foods.
How To Have Them?
Make Spiced Almonds:
- Put ¼ cup of almonds in a pan over medium heat.
- Sprinkle some chili powder and cinnamon.
- Mix for 2-3 minutes.
- This is almost 150-170 calories.
3. Blueberries
Blueberries don’t just add a burst of color to your plate, they’re also rich in antioxidants, potassium and vitamin C. According to a study, these berries decrease chances of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. They’re good for weight maintenance and provide you with neuroprotection, potentially slowing cognitive decline. They also feature anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties making them good for your gut health.
Why A Superfood Snack?
- These berries are one of the best superfood snacks to have as they’re low in calories, naturally sweet, and perfect for on-the-go snacking.
How To Have Them?
Make Blueberry Yogurt Parfait:
- Put ½ cup of low-fat, plain Greek yogurt and layer it with ¼ cup of fresh or frozen blueberries.
- Top it off with honey if you want.
- This is around 150-180 calories.
4. Avocado
Not only do avocados add a splash of greenery to your diet, they’re also rich in potassium, monosaturated fats and fiber, improving your heart health. Since they’re nutrient-dense, they fill you up for longer periods of time, improving your weight management. In addition, they also enable your body to absorb nutrients, helping you get the best out of your meals.
Why A Superfood Snack?
- Thanks to the creamy texture, avocados are perfect for toppings, dips, spreads or just regular snacking.
How To Have Them?
Make Avocado Toast:
- Mash 1/4 of an avocado.
- Layer this on a slice of toasted whole-grain (or white) bread.
- Sprinkle some salt, pepper, and a dash of red pepper flakes.
- Add a boiled egg for some added protein (optional).
- This is around 200 calories without and 250 with the eggs.
5. Chia Seeds
Emerging from Mexico and Guatemala, chia seeds are packed with antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, protein and fiber. This is why these tiny little seeds are great for supporting heart and liver health, controlling diabetes and preventing blood clotting. According to a study, they also improve your immunity and digestion. They also offer anti-aging properties, so you get glowing skin with regular use.
Why A Superfood Snack?
- Since they’re sprinkle-able, you can toss them into smoothies, yogurt, drinks or even make a pudding out of it!
How To Have Them?
Make Chia Seed Pudding:
- Take unsweetened ½ cup of almond milk or skimmed milk.
- Add a drop of vanilla extract.
- Toss in 2 tbsp of chia seeds.
- Let it rest for 5-6 minutes or until it gets thick.
- Add some honey if you want to.
- This is around 150-170 calories per serving.
6. Sweet Potatoes
High in beta-carotene, vitamins A and C, and fiber, sweet potatoes are good for your overall immune function. They also improve your digestion by promoting gut health. And what’s more is that they support your eye health, lowering the risk of poor vision in the long run.
Why A Superfood Snack?
- Since they’re versatile, you can make baked chips or boiled cubes for a delicious snack!
How To Have Them?
Make Sweet Potato Chips:
- Slice up ¼ cup of sweet potatoes thinly.
- Place them on a plate and microwave for 5-6 minutes.
- Flip them halfway through so they’re crispy on both sides.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- This is about 100 calories.
7. Edamame
If you’re trying to go green, then snacking on edamame will be a game-changer for you. A great source of soy protein, fiber and antioxidants, edamame supports heart health and improves digestion. According to a study, it is considered to be a functional food crop, which means its benefits exceed its nutritional value.
Why A Superfood Snack?
- Not only does it take under 5 minutes to prep, it is also a great finger-food so you can bite and nibble on-the-go!
How To Have Them?
Make Edamame Bowl:
- Boil or steam ½ cup of shelled edamame.
- Sprinkle some salt and paprika.
- Squeeze some lemon or lime on top.
- This superfood snack is approximately 100 calories.
8. Greek Yogurt
Not only is Greek yogurt rich in probiotics to improve your digestion and bone health and density, it is also a great source of protein, which makes it a perfect post-workout treat. In fact, according to a study, having Greek yogurt along with resistance training actually improves your overall strength and muscle thickness. And since its protein-rich, it allows you to gain lean muscle mass, aiding you in fat loss.
Why A Superfood Snack?
- Rich, creamy and multi-purpose, Greek yogurt can be used in desserts for baking, high-protein smoothies if you substitute it with milk or full-fat yogurt, or as a fruit or nut bowl for snacking.
How To Have Them?
Make Greek Yogurt and Berry Mix:
- In a bowl, throw in ½ cup of low-fat, plain Greek yogurt.
- Toss in ¼ cup of mixed berries.
- Sprinkle some cinnamon.
- Top it off with some coconut flakes.
- This is around 120-150 calories.
9. Dark Chocolate (70% or higher)
Got a sweet tooth? Good thing dark chocolate is one of the best superfood snacks out there! Loaded with antioxidants such as flavonoids, this treat fights harmful toxins in your body, regulates blood pressure and ensures a healthy heart function.
Studies show that dark chocolate also improves your mood, brain function and energy levels. Since it improves insulin sensitivity, it manages blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of diabetes.
Why A Superfood Snack?
- A quick treat, dark chocolate satisfies those sugar cravings!
How To Have Them?
Make Dark Chocolate Almonds:
- Take about 10-15 grams of dark chocolate square.
- Melt this in a bowl.
- Toss in 10 almonds into this mixture and coat them.
- Keep these on a parchment paper.
- Refrigerate them for half an hour.
- This is around 150-200 calories of pure indulgence.
10. Hummus
Made from chickpeas, tahini, sesame and olive oil, hummus is rich in protein and fiber.
According to a recent study, this delicious dip improves glucose and insulin response in your blood, controls your cholesterol levels and improves overall cardiovascular health.
This dip or spread also contains anti-cancer properties along with improving your digestive health.
Why A Superfood Snack?
This Mediterranean dip or spread is the perfect side to your crackers and veggies. It can also be used as a salad topping or as a spread for your healthy sandwich.
How To Have Them?
Make Hummus and Veggie Sticks:
- Slice up some carrots, cucumbers and bell peppers into sticks.
- Serve with 2 tbsp of hummus.
- This is around 100-150 calories based on how many veggies you’re snacking on.
Final Thoughts
Wrapping up, our journey through superfood snacks and everything about them shows that eating well and right doesn't have to be boring or dull. Instead, it takes understanding your body's requirements and incorporating nutrient-rich nibblers into your diet plan to fuel your body and keep your energy levels up.
Whether you're on a late-night binge-watch or rushing through a hectic day, these super snacks make sure you're energized, satisfied, and above all, healthy. Remember, every bite is a step towards a healthier you, so snack away without a shred of guilt!
Snack smart, feel super, and let us know your favorites or any hidden gems you’ve discovered in your quest for guilt-free munching!
FAQs
What are the top 20 super foods?
Here are is a list of the top 20 super foods snacks you can munch on when you’re on the road, looking for a quick pre-workout bite or need something to nibble on late at night:
- Blueberries: Packed in antioxidants, blueberries are great for heart health and immunity.
- Salmon: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, salmon supports brain health and reduces inflammation.
- Kale: This nutrient-dense leafy green is packed with vitamins A, C, K, fiber, and essential minerals.
- Spinach: Loaded with a variety of vitamins and minerals, spinach boosts eye health, and reduces oxidative stress.
- Broccoli: Rich in vitamins A, C, K, and contains cancer-fighting compounds.
- Almonds: High in healthy fats, vitamin E, and protein, almonds are good for heart health.
- Avocados: Full of healthy fats, fiber, and potassium, avocados support heart and digestive health.
- Sweet Potatoes: A source of vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes are high in antioxidants.
- Walnuts: Rich in Omega-3 and antioxidants, walnuts are great for brain health.
- Quinoa: A complete protein source, quinoa is also high in fiber and B vitamins.
- Beans: These legumes are high in protein, fiber, and iron, supporting heart health and digestion.
- Oats: Known for their beta-glucan fiber, oats lower cholesterol and stabilize blood sugar.
- Green Tea: Packed with antioxidants, green tea supports brain health and fat loss.
- Garlic: With potent medicinal properties, garlic can combat sickness and improve heart health.
- Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory effects, ginger can alleviate nausea.
- Chia Seeds: High in Omega-3, fiber, and protein, chia seeds are great for heart and digestive health.
- Turmeric: Contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Dark Chocolate: Rich in antioxidants, dark chocolate can reduce heart disease risk.
- Flaxseeds: These seeds are a good source of Omega-3 fats, fiber, and cancer-fighting lignans.
- Greek Yogurt: Packed with protein and probiotics, Greek yogurt supports digestive and bone health.
What are the 7 super foods?
Whether you’re looking for healthy snacks to satisfy your late night cravings or just keep you full after breakfast hours, here are 7 super foods you can snack on without feeling those pangs of guilt:
- Blueberries: Eat them fresh or dried for a quick antioxidant-rich snack.
- Almonds: A handful gives you protein and good fats to keep you full.
- Chia Seeds: Sprinkle on yogurt for fiber and omega-3s.
- Dark Chocolate: Choose high cocoa content pieces for a healthy treat.
- Avocados: Slice them up for a creamy, nutritious snack.
- Kale Chips: Bake or air fry kale leaves until crispy for a vitamin-packed crunch.
- Quinoa Salad: Cold quinoa with veggies is a protein-filled snack.
What are 25 super foods?
Here is a list of the best, super delicious superfood snacks you can eat on-the-go:
- Blueberries: Rich in antioxidants, potassium and vitamin C.
- Salmon: Loaded with Omega-3, protein, vitamins B and D.
- Kale: High in vitamins A, C, K, fiber, and minerals.
- Spinach: Loaded with vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber.
- Broccoli: High in vitamins A, C, and K. Also contains cancer-fighting sulforaphane.
- Almonds: Contains healthy fats, protein, fiber, and vitamin E.
- Avocados: Packing healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
- Sweet Potatoes: Loaded with vitamins A, C, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Walnuts: Rich in Omega-3, antioxidants, and phytosterols.
- Quinoa: Complete protein, rich in fiber and minerals.
- Beans (legumes): High in protein, fiber, and essential minerals.
- Oats: Rich in fiber, minerals, and beta-glucan.
- Green Tea: Packed with antioxidants, including ECGC.
- Garlic: Contains potent medicinal compounds like allicin.
- Ginger: Good when you’re nauseous thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Chia Seeds: High in Omega-3, fiber, and minerals.
- Turmeric: Contains anti-inflammatory curcumin.
- Dark Chocolate: High in heart-healthy flavonoids.
- Flaxseeds: Rich in Omega-3, fiber, and lignans.
- Tomatoes: High in vitamins, potassium, folate, and lycopene.
- Apples: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Greek Yogurt: Rich in protein and probiotics.
- Pumpkin Seeds: Contains antioxidants, magnesium, and zinc.
- Cinnamon: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, lowers blood sugar.
- Beets: High in fiber, folate, and essential minerals.
