8 Scrumptious snacking options when on weight loss.

Losing weight is easier said than done. When the munchies hit, most of us give up and go grab that bag of processed, trans-fat laden food. And then the guilt that you feel is terrible. So, to counter sudden pangs of hunger, and stay healthy (and guilt-free), here are some healthy snack foods you can chew on:

1. Dried fruits: Low in calories and tasty while at it! This is the best snack you can carry when you are going on a long journey. Toss some almonds and dried apricots together in a container that you can easily carry in your bag. So, if you’re on an airplane, instead of buying those salty snacks, munch on your customised one.
2. Oatmeal: It is somewhere after midnight, and you are wide awake because your tummy wants a midnight snack. Oatmeal is a safe choice for a midnight snack. It even increases ‘tryptophan’ (a kind of amino acid) levels in your brain, which makes you sleepy soundly. Eat it with some low-fat yoghurt and fruit of your choice.
3. Hummus: If the pangs attack you in the afternoon, plan ahead and carry a small tub of hummus with you. This simple Middle Eastern chickpea dip is full of proteins and carbs, which keeps you full and satisfied. Dip some vegetables or pretzels to curb those hunger pangs.
4. Yoghurt: The gap between lunch and dinner is quite extensive, and if you feel hungry, it’s nothing surprising. The trick is to eat something that is nutritional and filling. Yoghurt is one such perfect snack. Eat it as it is, or mix in some cereals or fruits.
5. Popcorn: This fun snack has high fibre content. It is also low in fat and packs some protein. The calorie count of unsalted, unbuttered popcorn is 110, thus making it filling and healthy.
6. Chocolate: Sounds surprising, but chocolate is a treat you can include in your  weight loss plan! Dark chocolate is actually good in small amounts. And giving in to your cravings every now and then won’t hurt. Restricting yourself can actually make you give up your plan.
7. Grapes: If you feel like something sweet, grapes are the best option. You would feel satisfied minus the guilt! As a fun option, you can freeze the grapes before eating them.
8. Almonds: Not only are they delicious, they also pack a lot of nutrients. Grab a handful whenever the munchies strike!

Other Tips

1. Special care has to be taken controlling portion sizes, as dried fruits are equally high in calories. A diet expert should define the portion size.
2. A teaspoon of soaked chia seeds or grounded flaxseeds can make the oat meal scrumptious and healthier.
3. Adding About a tsp of cold pressed olive oil to the hummus dip can make it healthier and it can be enjoyed with vegetable sticks.
4. Plain yogurts can be added to nuts,fruit cuts or simply made as exotic raitas to facilitate satiety.
5. Looks for breakfast cereals which are sodium and sugar free by reading nutritional labels.
6. Pick for roasted,salt free almonds to make almonds more healthy.
7. Green tea bags are easy to carry and can be taken at regular intervals.
8. No diet farsan, zero cholesterol or other bakery products please,they don't exist. Eat from the earth rather rely on the boxes.

For the personalised diet chart reach out to Dt Apeksha Thakkar at www.apekshapt.in