Dietitians dish on how to choose delicious, protein-packed snacks to keep your hunger at bay.
Strategic snacking can also help reduce cravings and make it easier to make mindful food choices.
Need tips for what to look for in a high-protein snack?
Photo:vik.stock / STOCK.ADOBE.COM
Here, dietitians share how to make smart snack choices.
KUBE / STOCK.ADOBE.COM
What Counts As A High-Protein Snack?
To be considered high-protein, a snack must have at least 10 grams of protein.
KUBE / STOCK.ADOBE.COM
For a high-protein snack, aim for a range of at least 10 to 20 grams of protein.
Some of Enright’s favorite options are animal proteins, such as turkey, eggs, and dairy products.
She also recommendsplant-based proteinssuch as beans, nuts, and seeds.
KUBE / STOCK.ADOBE.COM
Meeting your protein goals with snacks can take a bit of planning (and math).
For example, Enright notes that “one hard-boiled egg only provides six grams of protein.
It can also help to consider where a snack fits into your overall protein goals.
When Should You Eat a High-Protein Snack?
Aim for 10-25 grams of protein within two hours of finishing your workout.
What Should You Look For When Shopping For a High-Protein Snack?
Avoid snacks with added sugars or excessive amounts of unhealthy fats.
If youre choosing a packaged food, Ruth always recommends closely examining the product label.
Look at the ‘protein’ section on the nutrition label.
Enright recommends looking for protein sources low in saturated fat, sodium, and added sugar.
She also suggests limiting highly processed meats, such as salami or pepperoni.
However, lean beef jerky can be a good snack in moderation.
However, there are other considerations to keep in mind while snacking.
Enright recommends using snacks to work more colorful produce into your day.
Be mindful of portion sizes
Enright also recommends being mindful ofportion sizes.
it’s possible for you to use the plate as a way to balance your nutrition.
Dietitians Go-To, High-Protein Snacks
There are tons of protein-rich snack options out there.
Amer loves wrapping turkey slices around pear wedges for a sweet and savory snack.
Pair high-protein cereal with milk for a nostalgic, crunchy snack.
Serve hummus with fiber-rich veggies or whole grain or seed-based crackers.
Mix Greek yogurt with peanut butter powder to use as a dip for apple slices.
Strategic snacking can help you stay nourished and meet your health goals.
A high-protein snack has 10-25 grams of protein.
For optimal benefits, verify your high-protein snack also contains fiber.
