Are you eating all the right meals but are finding it hard to shed the extra kilos? Maybe those sneaky snacks are letting you down!
According to health and wellness expert and part time model Olivia Arezzolo, the key to staying in shape is to snack wisely.
Here are her four-go-to snacks that are easy to make and failsafe. So next time you reach for those crisps or fizzy drink try these instead.
Water
According to Olivia, the best way to curb hunger is to up your water levels. “Often, we confuse hunger with thirst, so before touching food, ALWAYS drink a big glass of water and wait 20 minutes. You’ll soon find the hunger subsides – calorie free!” she says.
Green smoothie
Making your own smoothies will not only save on the pocket but the waistline too. Many shop-bought smoothies contain hidden calories. Try Olivia’s smoothie which is easy to make and low in calories.
“Combine 1 scoop of vegan vanilla protein powder, 100ml almond milk, a frozen banana and a handful of kale or baby spinach. With protein to enhance satiety, this means you’re less likely to reach for that chocolate bar come 3pm,” she says.
“Balanced by healthy sugars to provide you that boost of energy, plus greens to assist in detoxification, the green smoothie is perfect for weight loss. Free from inflammatory ingredients such as dairy and gluten, it also helps to reduce bloating too. Ideal as a breakfast, post workout or afternoon snack.”
Boiled eggs and hummus
Do you often find yourself snacking on chips and dips? Try boiled eggs with hummus instead.
“Scientists recently revealed that compared to a bagel with the same calorie value, eggs reduced hunger cravings, later food intake and enhanced feelings of fullness. With complete protein and omega 3 fats – eggs are also key to muscle recovery, skin rejuvenation and bodily repair – important for anyone under considerable stress,” says Olivia. “Hummus is a great dip partner, with low GI carbohydrates which is fundamental in brain functioning and mood, meaning reducing moodiness and eating for comfort later.”
Edamame beans
Swap peanuts for nutrient rich edamame beans. “Fresh or dried, these protein rich, low GI legumes are the perfect between meal snack. Fuelling muscles and brain collectively, they are also rich in folate – providing a whopping 121% of your daily needs,” says Olivia.
“Especially for women looking to conceive, folate is a key nutrient for cell development and oxygen distribution throughout the body – important for energy production. Relevant to weight loss, folate allows us to power through our days (and workouts) sans sugary snacks.”
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