The Chronicle

NINE HEALTHY SNACKS FOR UNDER 100 CALORIES

- MELISSA MEIER Melissa Meier is a Sydney-based accredited practising dietitian. You can connect with her on Instagram @honest_nutrition

SNACKS can make or break a healthy diet but the good news is that you can snack and still be healthy, as long as you make considered decisions.

The following nine dietitiana­pproved snacks are incredibly good for you and are calorie controlled.

1 Banana 386kJ/92cal If you’ve got a sweet tooth, a banana (or any other piece of fresh fruit, for that matter) is a very wise choice. Perfectly portioned in its own biodegrada­ble packaging, bananas provide gut-loving fibre and slow-burning energy.

2 Half a cup of edamame beans 309kJ/74cal Part of the legume family, edamame beans are jam-packed with plant-based protein, low-GI carbs and satisfying fibre.

3 Three corn crispbread­s topped with one tablespoon of reduced-fat cottage cheese and half a sliced tomato 414kJ/99cal If you’re after something a little more substantia­l. I like to top crispbread­s with cheese and some sliced tomato for a quick ‘n’ easy healthy snack.

4 One hard-boiled egg 235kJ/56cal High in top-quality protein, hard-boiled eggs are a winner in my books. They also provide vitamin D to support healthy bones, energising iron and heart-healthy omega-3 fats. 5 Half a cup of reduced fat yoghurt topped with one tablespoon of frozen mixed berries 418kJ/100cal Yoghurt is a great option for a boost of bone-strengthen­ing calcium, and it also provides muscle-building protein. I recommend buying a plain, unsweetene­d variety and adding fresh or frozen fruit to sweeten it up if necessary.

6 One carrot and one tablespoon hummus 414kJ/99cal I recommend preportion­ing your tablespoon of hummus before digging into your snack – otherwise, the whole tub could be gone in no time.

7 Two cups plain air-popped popcorn 366kJ/88cal Yes, popcorn is an incredibly healthy snack! Plus, it also counts as a whole grain and therefore provides various essential micronutri­ents.

8 Ten almonds 286kJ/68cal Rich in healthy fats to support your heart and brain, raw, unsalted almonds get my tick of approval.

9 Three wholegrain crispbread­s topped with two tablespoon­s of ricotta cheese 408kJ/98cal Another cheese and cracker combo, this snack idea heroes ricotta cheese.

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