If your stomach grumbles every evening after sundown and you regularly give in to the temptation of eating unhealthy snacks like samosas, momos, and noodles, it's time to re-think your eating choices.
These are the foods that are high in saturated fats and oil, and regular consumption can add inches to your waist, increasing your chances of lifestyle illnesses. Considering these foods lack fibre and nutrients, you may end up feeling hungry soon after eating them, which can also increase your overall calorie count.
Evening snacks which are low in calories and high in protein, fiber, and healthy fat, can help control your appetite and support your weight loss journey.
Here are 5 healthy evening snacks for weight loss:
1. Popcorn If made in a healthy way, popcorn can be a nutritious evening snack option which can support weight loss. Popcorn is a whole grain, rich in fibre, protein, carbohydrates, and low in calories and cholesterol. No oil popcorns can help you lose weight and add a wealth of nutrients to your body, besides making you feel full and controlling your appetite. Avoid eating popcorns with loads of salt, sugar, or butter and do not buy them from store.
Calorie count
Air-popped popcorn: 30 calories per cup
Oil-popped popcorn: 35 calories per cup
2. Baked Samosa
Say no to oily and greasy samosas as this unhealthy snack can derail your weight loss journey. Good news is that using a healthier cooking method like baking and incorporating healthy ingredients in the stuffing can transform your samosa into a healthy and satisfying snack. Make them with whole grain flour and if you want to make them healthier, instead of potato, you can use paneer.
Calorie count
32 calories per piece
3. Boiled peanut chaat
Boiled peanuts chaat is another great option for your mid-meal cravings. They are rich in protein, fibre, and healthy fat. Seasoning them with spices, onion, tomato, green chili can add to the flavor. Eating peanut chaat will satiate your salty cravings and also control your appetite.
Calorie count
116 calories per 1/4 cup
4. Roasted Makhana
Roasted Makhana is not just an evening snack but a superfood with a range of nutrients. It’s healthy, tasty, and crunchy, which can make them a perfect companion with your evening tea. Makhana is high in protein, potassium, calcium, magnesium, B vitamins, antioxidants, and low in calories. You can roast them without oil in a wok till they turn crispy. Season them with salt and spices to add flavor. Makhanas will fill you up nicely and keep cravings at bay.
Calorie count
216 calories per cup
5. Grilled Mushroom Tikka
If you are craving for a slightly more filling evening snack which you can also serve to your friends or family, you can opt for grilled Mushroom Tikka. Mushrooms are a healthy option as they contain protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals and can help prevent heart disease, regulate blood pressure, and support the immune system. As they are high in fiber and protein, they help control appetite.
Calorie count
120 kcal for 4 pieces
6. Grilled Paneer Tikka
Grilled Paneer Tikka is the perfect party snack and evening indulgence with your family. With paneer its primary ingredient, it is quite nutrient-dense. High in calcium and protein, paneer tikka is satiating and aids in your weight loss journey. It also helps prevent heart disease.
Calorie count: 160 kcal for 4 pieces
