12 Protein-Packed Snacks That Will Keep You Energized

The key to a satisfying snack is protein, the hunger-busting nutrient that slows digestion and keeps your blood sugar steady. Here are 12 portable options you can take anywhere.

Single-serve cottage cheese: It has 3 grams more belly-filling protein than a typical serving of Greek Yogurt.

Hardboiled egg: In addition to 6 grams of protein, one egg delivers a hearty dose of vitamin D and B12.

Peanut butter pack: Just one squeeze pack contains 8 grams of protein. Smear it on a banana for some antioxidants and fiber.

Mini cheese or string cheese: These snack-size portions (with 6 to 8 grams protein each)  are individually wrapped, which means you can toss them right in your purse.

Edamame: Whether you eat edamame hot or dry roasted, you’re getting a satisfying combo of protein and fiber.

Roasted chickpeas: One serving packs 5 grams each of fiber and protein. You can make a batch of your own by mixing rinsed and drained chickpeas with olive oil and your choice of spices; then back in a preheated oven at 425 degrees for 45 minutes.

Greek yogurt: Creamy and delicious — Greek yogurt tastes like dessert, and boasts more protein (12 to 20 grams of protein per container) than traditional yogurts.

Turkey roll-up: Nitrate-free deli turkey breast rolled up with a little mustard, a slice of tomato, and some lettuce provides 18 grams of protein, to help tide you over from lunch to dinner.

Hummus cup: Make your own snack-pack with sliced veggies to dip.

100-calorie almond pack: These packs with built-in portion control contain 4 grams of filling protein.

Tuna pouch: Easy to eat (just dig in with a fork!), each packet has 16 grams of protein, and satisfies 100% of your daily need for the antioxidant selenium.

Kefir: For a healthy gut, try this lactose-free, drinkable “yogurt,” which as three times as much probiotics as regular yogurt, and 11 grams of protein per cup.

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Snacks for Diabetics that Help Regulate Blood Sugar

Hunger can cause spikes and dips in the blood sugar levels of those with Type 2 diabetes. This in turn can result in dizziness, irritability, and weakness.

That is why having a healthy snack is important for these people, as it can help their blood sugar levels stay the same throughout the entire day.

For that purpose, here are several smart snacking options to choose from:

Leafy Green Vegetables

It’s time to broaden your horizons when eating green salad. Add spinach, chard, and kale as they are healthy, delicious, and low in carbs.

Pistachios

Thanks to the protein content and the combination of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, pistachios can help reduce your cholesterol levels as well as the risk of health problems related to your diabetes. Be prepared when the hunger strikes by having an ounce of this nut in your bag at any time.

Low-Calorie Drinks

Besides drinking plain water which is always a good idea, you should also consider adding some fruits or veggies to your drink. Add some lemon or cucumber slices to your water, or some fruit ice cubes previously made. You can also add a cinnamon stick if you prefer drinking cold teas. These drinks will fill you up even though they are low in carbs.

Raw, Cooked, or Roasted Veggies

Vegetables are loaded with nutrients that can help diabetes, so you should definitely include them in your everyday diet. You can eat them raw, roasted, or cooked, as well as add them to various dishes. You can even dip them in salsa, guacamole, or even hummus.

To get a healthy dose of minerals and vitamins that will help regulate the levels of your blood sugar, consider the following low-carb vegetables; tomatoes, onions, Brussels sprouts, and eggplants.

Avocado with Lime

The monounsaturated fats in avocado make this food a smart snack that will make you fill full easily. Cut some avocado slices and top them with some lime juice and a pinch of salt. Have in mind that avocados are high in calories, so practice a portion control. ½ a cup of avocadoes has around 120 calories which should suffice your carvings until your next meal.

Prepare these simple, healthy snacks that will help regulate your levels of blood sugar. They are easy to prepare and provide enough nutrients that will keep your blood sugar levels balanced, and boost your overall health thanks to their vitamin and mineral content.

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