After a long workday, all I usually want to do in the evening is crash on the couch with my favorite TV show playing and something tasty to munch on. But here’s the thing: snacking is where I’ve always struggled the most with staying on track. When I first started my weight loss journey, I realized my meals were relatively healthy during the day, but come evening, my snack choices were wreaking havoc. They certainly weren’t the best snacks for weight loss, to say the least.
Sugary treats, salty chips, and way too much of both—it was like a free-for-all every night. I could polish off an entire bag of chips, a couple of candy bars, and maybe even a snack cake or two without batting an eye. The next day? Rinse and repeat. I knew I needed to make a change and find the best snacks for weight loss that still satisfied my cravings.
That’s when I started paying attention to what I was really craving:
- Something crunchy to munch on (hello, chips!)
- Something sweet or sour (cue the candy!)
From there, I got creative and discovered healthier alternatives that not only satisfied those cravings but also helped me stay on track with my goals. Here are the top three snacks that work for me:
1. Unsalted Nuts
For me, nuts are some of the best snacks for weight loss—when eaten in moderation. They’re crunchy, delicious, and full of healthy fats like omega-3s. Plus, they pack protein, a little extra fiber, and a little natural sweetness, depending on the type.
The key? Portion control. Nuts are calorie-dense, so I measure out a serving (about 1/4 cup) to avoid overindulging. I also stick to unsalted varieties to keep my sodium intake low.
Here are my go-to options:
- Almonds: Perfect raw or roasted (unsalted, of course).
- Roasted Cashews: Creamy and satisfying.
- Peanuts: A classic, but I opt for roasted and unsalted.
- Walnuts: A lot of people like them chopped and sprinkled into salads, but they’re great eaten plain.
- Pecans: Slightly sweet and oh-so-crunchy.
To keep things interesting, I’ll mix two types of nuts for variety, and I will have just a half serving (2 tbsp) of each for my snack. If I happen to eat any nuts during lunch, I will only have another half serving in the evening snack or skip nuts altogether in the evening.
Another great thing about nuts is that they pair very well with my next favorite snack on the list.
2. Low-Fat Cheese
Cheese and nuts? There’s no denying that they’re just meant to be. I love adding a low-fat mozzarella cheese stick to my snack lineup. It’s a fantastic source of protein with fewer calories and fat than regular cheese.
For example, a low-fat mozzarella stick clocks in at just 50 calories, but it’s packed with flavor and protein to keep me satisfied. Whether paired with nuts or enjoyed solo, it’s a snack that feels indulgent without derailing my progress.
3. No Sugar-Added Candy
Believe it or not, candy can still have a place in a weight loss-friendly snack list! I’ve discovered some incredible no-sugar-added options that satisfy my sweet tooth without the guilt.
Here are my favorites:
- Lily’s Gummy Bears: These are my go-to for sweet and tart cravings. They’re sugar-free, packed with fiber (hello, 96% of your daily value per serving), and incredibly satisfying. I usually enjoy half a pack at a time, stretching one bag over two nights.
- Lily’s Gummy Worms: Perfect when I’m in the mood for something sour. These do contain a small amount of sugar alcohols (just 4g per serving), but they’re easy on my stomach, and the flavor is spot on. I usually eat half a pack of these at a time as well.
Pro tip: I recently discovered that I could buy these in bulk at a lower price on Amazon. If you’re interested, here are links for convenience:
I’m also experimenting with other no-sugar-added candies, so stay tuned for updates!
Why No Fruit?
You might be wondering why fruits didn’t make the list of my best snacks for weight loss. Don’t get me wrong — fruits are amazing! They’re a regular part of my diet, loaded with vitamins and natural sweetness. But when it comes to evening snacking, there’s a specific reason I usually avoid them. Curious? Stay tuned. I’m working on a post wherein I explain it in detail!
What About You?
Have you tried any of these snacks? How did they work for you? Or maybe you have your own go-to snacks that keep cravings in check without sabotaging your progress. I’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas—leave a comment below and let’s chat!