Snacking refers to the act of eating or drinking between regular meals. An apple as a pre-lunch snack or some makhanas (lotus seeds) in the evening both come under snacks. Although experts are divided on its role in weight loss, snacks boost energy, give you a window to relax, and satiate your hunger leaving you less likely to overeat during meals. Many say it provides you with nutrients you might not get from regular meals. However, nourishment depends on the snack you choose. A packet of chips has no nutritional value. On the other hand, an apple or a banana is rich in nutrients and is a healthy source of calories, unlike chips. So, what are some healthy snacks options that suit the Indian palette? For an answer to this question, Onlymyhealth spoke to Rakshita Mehra, who is a nutritionist and the founder of ‘Nutrishala’.
Options Of Healthy Indian Snacks
Here are some healthy snacks you can have:
1. Makhana (Lotus Seeds)
If you are someone hooked on chips and looking for a similar alternative that is healthy, makhana (lotus seeds) is the snack for you. It is low in calories, rich in protein and calcium, and can become your go-to evening snack.
2. Roasted Chana (Chickpea)
For that dose of protein in the middle of the day, roasted chana is the snack for you. Protein not just keeps you full for longer it induces alertness, which you might need to beat that mid-noon lull. Also, it is rich in fiber, hence great for satiety and bowel movement.
3. Fruits
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It’s the simplest and among the healthiest snacks, you can choose. Fruits are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are also high in antioxidants, thus aiding your body's fight against free radicals. An apple, banana, kiwi, or grapes, just pick any fruit of your choice, and you are good to go.
Also read: Taste Over Health? Majority Indians Replace At Least 1 Meal With Snacks: Study
4. Nuts
A handful of nuts are filling, delicious, and nutritious. These are rich in fiber and have a balance of proteins and fats. Almonds, cashews, pistachios, walnuts, there are multiple nuts to choose from.
5. Yogurt
A cup of yogurt makes for a delicious and highly nutritious snacking option. It is rich in protein and calcium. You can also toss in some fruits to enhance the flavour and the overall nutritional value.
6. Egg
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Now, what can beat an egg when it comes to nutrition. It is filling, tasty, and very healthy. Most prefer it for breakfast, but it also makes a great snack.
7. Sprouts
Sprouts are rich in fiber, thus good for digestion. They are high in protein too. You can make a delicious bowl of sprouts by cutting some tomatoes, onions, cucumber, pomegranate seeds, and lemon to it to enhance taste and nutritional value.
Also read: Eating Fries and Other Starchy Snacks Increase Risk of Heart Problems: Study
8. Dhokla
This tasty dish native to the Indian state of Gujarat is not just tasty and filling but highly nutritious. It feels light on the stomach but at the same time provides you with ample protein and vitamins.
9. Murmure (Puffed Rice)
If you are looking for something quick and healthy, murmure (puffed rice) is the snack for you. It is light, with ample protein and fiber. You can play with the flavour with spices and vegetables and make yourself a tasty bowl of snacks.
Eating a snack won’t hurt you until you opt for healthy ones. And there are numerous healthy options available in the market. Just grab one of them, and you are good to sail through the day.
(With inputs from Rakshita Mehra, who is a nutritionist and the founder of ‘Nutrishala’)
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