"Are you snacking right!?"
It sounds like such an easy question but depending on what you read, what your preferences are and how your lifestyle influences this can be quite a confusing and challenging question. Snacks can be as simple or as time-consuming as you like, apart of our Transformation Plans we provide delicious recipes to enjoy that require a small amount of time in the kitchen but can be enjoyed in bulk to be cost-effective and ideal for a nutrient rich snack, this post is designed to provide you with our recommended simple but effective snacks that you can add into your diet immediately.
NUMBER 10 - BEEF JERKY
Only reason we have put this at number 10 on the list is purely to do with its mixed reception, its sort of a marmite... you'll either love it or hate it!
If you are a lover though, you can enjoy a world of high protein intake, a standard bag usually contains around 35g of
protein and are low in fat, the perfect combo for your muscles!!! Keep an eye out for new flavours that are always being introduced such as the chicken jerky that is also now available, a personal favourite of mine but always seems to be sold out so I must not be the only one to enjoy.
NUMBER 9 - ROASTED CHICKPEAS
This tasty little number will require a small amount of time in the kitchen BUT comes with great rewards and is time/money saver when made in bulk.
Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Whisk the oil, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper together in a small bowl; add the chickpeas and toss to coat. Spread into a single layer on a baking sheet.
Roast in the preheated oven, stirring occasionally, until nicely browned and slightly crispy, about 45 minutes.
Per Serving: 153 calories; 8 g fat; 17.5 g carbohydrates; 3.9 g protein
NUMBER 8 - BOILED EGGS
Eggs really are a classic when it comes to simple snacks!! A large egg contains over 6g of protein, they are rich in BCAA's and B Vitamins which are important for a healthy nervous system.
Top Tip; sprinkle some paprika on your boiled egg to aid a healthy digestion system.
NUMBER 7 - EDAMAME
Edamame are stacked in protein, are a complex carb and high in fats to give you long-lasting energy.
This snack can be enjoyed hot or cold and comes with additional benefits such as Iron, Magnesium and Vitamin K.
Here is our favourite recipe to enjoy as a tasty snack; EDAMAME + GARLIC & PARMESAN
In a medium bowl toss 1 1/2 cups of unshelled, heated edamame with 1 teaspoon olive oil, 1 clove minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesancheese, until well-coated. Or for a more mild version that tames the bite of the garlic, toss the edamame, olive oil, and minced garlic in a skillet over low heat for a couple minute, then top with Parmesan. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge until ready to eat.
NUMBER 6 - TOMATO JUICE
Don't be fooled... this liquid based snack can be quite filling and bring great nutritional benefits.
If you like orange juice, try tomato juice since it has half as much sugar & high in antioxidants that can help you recover from exercise better.
NUMBER 5 - PROTEIN BAR
So simple yet so effective... protein bars are the ideal snack if you are looking for a high protein, muscle replenishing snack that you can eat instantly with little preparation or hassle.
If you have a sweet tooth and are looking for the next best thing to chocolate, then look no further than Grenade Carb Killa to satisfy those needs!! With a variety of amazing flavours ranging from Caramel Chaos, Cookies & Cream to Fudge Brownie, Carb Killas really are the boss in the protein bar world!!
NUMBER 4 - PROTEIN SHAKE
This simple but effective snack is the perfect solution for someone looking to pack a punch in the protein department and really replenish those muscles to speed up recovery from a workout.
With a range of flavours to enjoy, I guarantee you will find one to suit your tastebuds.
My Top Tip; If you really feel like turning a notch up on your protein, double up on the serving to increase your intake and help increase your daily protein intake.
NUMBER 3 - NUTS & SEEDS
Ignore anything bad you may have heard about nuts and seeds, these little gems have endless qualities and literally require 5 minutes of your time to put together a little pot to enjoy!
Benefits include; High Fat (Don't worry, this is a good fat and will help with vitamin absorption), high fibre, will help lower cholesterol, lower risk of diabetes, antioxidants including Vitamin E and many more! I don't want to be that guy who says it, but I'm going to anyway! They also contain protein, although please bare in mind I'm not suggesting this is a high protein snack.
Our Top 5 picks are;
Almonds
Pistachios
Walnuts
Flaxseeds
Sunflower Seeds
NUMBER 2 - FRUIT
About as easy as snacking gets, fruit is one of the most perfect snacks you can have within your daily routine and require minimum amount of time to prepare.
There is only one reason we have put Fruit as second on our list and this is due to some of the natural sugars in fruit that can contribute to weight gain. All fruits come with a variety of health benefits such as;
Our Top 5 Fruits Are;
Bananas
Watermelon
Avocado
Grapefruit
Blackberries
Top Tip; Try the frozen vine and freeze your grapes! This healthy alternative is a good replacement for ice cream and provides protein, calcium and vitamin c.
NUMBER 1 - VEGETABLES
Here it is, our number one simple snack with the most nutritional benefit!!
As mentioned above, vegetables pipped fruit to the top spot due to its lower amounts of natural sugar. Like fruit, vegetables have a whole range of health benefits including; Naturally low in fat and calories, high in potassium, fibre, folate acid, vitamin a and c plus many more! These vegetables are chosen for their simplicity and health benefits, they can be consumed either raw or blended - keep an eye out for our favourite homemade dips coming soon!
Here is our favourite 5 vegetable snacks;
Broccoli
Cherry Tomatoes
Carrots
Cucumber
Celery
There it is, our top 10 simple but effective snacks you can have and enjoy, comment below to let us know what you think or if you have any suggestions or recommendations to share.
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