When food cravings occur, they strike suddenly and without warning. One minute you’re fine; the next you’re ravenously raiding the cupboard for anything you can get your hands on. Curiously, no one ever seems to crave an apple; it’s always salty carbs and sugary sweets we desire. In addition to derailing your diet, these quick fixes invariably leave you wanting more. The quick burst of energy you receive is followed just as swiftly by a crash. You can’t control food cravings but you can control how you respond to them by keeping your kitchen stocked with healthy snacks. Choose nutrient-dense foods that will sate your appetite and supply the energy you need to make it till mealtime. The following options tick all the right boxes.
Cottage cheese
Loaded with protein, cottage cheese will curb hunger and fuel your muscles into growth. This healthy treat is rich in calcium, potassium, zinc, magnesium, selenium and other minerals that support optimal health. The nutrients in cottage cheese will strengthen your bones, enhance immune function and regulate your blood sugar levels.
Almonds
Almonds have the highest protein content of all nuts. They’re also much lower in calories and pack a lot of fibre and healthy fats. These delicately flavoured and versatile nuts deliver large amounts of vitamin E, biotin, copper, magnesium and antioxidants. Almonds have also been proven to prevent post-meal surges in blood sugar and ward off diabetes.
Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein that boasts appetite-suppressing effects. With its rich, creamy texture, it tastes indulgent but won’t ruin your diet. This healthy, filling snack contains twice as much protein as regular yogurt, making it ideal for anyone looking to build muscle. Eat it straight out the tub or mix it with berries or mashed bananas to make a tasty dessert.
Whey protein
Shaken up and taken, whey protein makes a great on-the-go snack, but its uses don’t end there; protein powder can also be used to make healthy desserts and smoothies. Research shows that protein can help control hunger and reduce your calorie intake throughout the day. It does this by sending a chain reaction of signals that deliver satiety messages to the brain, keeping you full for longer. If you’re in a hurry, a scoop of Healthy Whey will give you 20 grams of quality protein in a tasty chocolate, vanilla or strawberry shake.
Peanut butter
Peanut butter is packed with goodness, but go easy on it – it’s also calorie dense. When you’re feeling peckish, one tablespoon of peanut butter will keep sugar cravings at bay and satisfy your sweet tooth. The healthy fats found in peanut butter will sate hunger and provide a much-needed energy boost. A spoonful of quality peanut butter will also contain fibre, protein, calcium, magnesium and zinc.
Oat bran
The slimming benefits of oat bran are backed up by science. After ingestion, this heart-healthy, fibre-filled grain absorbs up to 25 times its volume in water and expands in your stomach, leaving you full. Oat bran also contains beta-glucan, a unique type of soluble fibre that curbs hunger and helps the body fight infections.
Banish sweet treats and salty snacks from your kitchen, replacing them with healthy options that will satisfy your hunger. That way, when cravings strike, you’ll be prepared.
