For a long time, whenever the word 'snacking' was mentioned, all that came to mind were foods that were deemed unhealthy, overprocessed, harmful, and high in carbs.

In the past, medical and health professionals have advised people to stay away from snacks because they believed snacking posed a higher risk of cancer and obesity.

But today, the narrative has changed. That is because there are natural and healthy snack ideas with low carbs that help to nourish the body and protect it from dangerous diseases.

According to MedlinePlus, a healthy snack between meals will not only decrease your hunger but will also keep you from overeating at mealtime!

Here are 5 natural healthy snack ideas you should try out.

Slices of Apple and Homemade Peanut Butter.

(Photo Credit: Foodiesfeed.)

This combination is not only mouthwatering, it is also nutritious!

Apple is a good antioxidant and a good source of fiber, while peanut butter, when taken in moderation, aids in weight loss and manages blood sugar levels.

Mixed Nuts.

(Photo Credit: Foodiesfeed.)

Mixed nuts range from a combination of any of these: hazelnuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, walnuts, etc.

Nuts are a great source of antioxidants. They can also help with weight loss, lowering cholesterol, benefiting type 2 diabetes, and are high in healthy fiber. To prevent overeating nuts, stick to a portion of 30g at a time.

Hard-Boiled Eggs.

(Photo Credit:  Foodiesfeed.)

Eggs are a protein and nutrient powerhouse, rich in Vitamin B2, B12, and B5.

It may be high in cholesterol, but an intake of 3-4 eggs per week will benefit the heart.

Popcorn.

(Photo Credit: Unsplash, Edgar Soto.)

Popcorn is a whole grain food rich in vitamin B1, B3, B6, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, and manganese. It is also considered one of the world's best sources of fiber. (Dietary fiber decreases the chance of constipation).

It would help if you stayed away from popcorn made with trans or saturated fats. This is because it can lead to bronchitis obliterans, popularly known as ‘popcorn lung’.

Coconut/olive oil is a better option.

Broccoli.

(Photo Credit: Foodiesfeed.)

Broccoli is low in calories and rich in nutrients.

It reduces cancer risk, as it is a cruciferous vegetable that prevents cell damage. Like every other dietary fiber, it also prevents constipation.

Do you know any more healthy snack ideas?

Could you drop them? In the comment below!

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 Jessica Uchechi Nwanguma is a Writer, Content and Social Media Strategist. She has a degree in Dental Technology and several certifications and has taken courses on Writing, SEO and digital and content marketing. Her book 'Beyond Agadez: the untold stories of the victims of human trafficking and organised crime.' is available on Amazon Kindle. She can be found online on Candour.substack.com.

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