Having a sweet tooth and being on a fat loss plan can be tough, but that doesn’t mean that snacking can't be a part of a fat loss plan: you just need to be smart. Being informed when making the right choices is so important though as some so-called ‘healthy snacks’ can be calorie-laden. When you choose a snack, and in particular something sweet, choose one that’s high in protein if possible and that includes good fat and/or fibre, as these nutrients take longer to digest and help to keep you feeling fuller for longer. It’s also key to have these healthy snacks to hand throughout the day, especially in the evening after dinner when you’re most likely to have cravings - as bad choices at this time can mess up a whole day of being strict. 

Need some help with those healthy snacks? Fit Squad DXB co-founder Daniel Wells picks out his faves: 

Popcorn

Popcorn is perfect for your late night cravings. One serving of popcorn provides about 70-percent of your recommended daily intake of whole grain. It contains zero cholesterol and it’s basically fat-free, containing just 100 to 150 calories in a serving of five popped cups. Make sure you pour your portion into a bowl and don’t eat straight out of the bag as getting carried away can be easily done with popcorn.

Dark chocolate 

You need to be careful on the quantities you’re eating of this one if fat loss is your goal, but the beauty of dark chocolate is that a little goes a long way, and it’s brilliant for curbing those cravings. Dark chocolate has many proven health benefits including improving blood flow and reducing high blood pressure. A few small squares should hit the spot and satisfy that sweet tooth. 

Apple and Almond butter 

If you haven’t tried this one then you must give it a go. Not necessarily an obvious duo but somehow it works, and works brilliantly at that. Again, you need to be a little careful with quantities as nut butters are very calorific, but a small amount on a sliced apple really does the job. It leaves you feeling full and the nut butter is high in protein and healthy fats while the apple is high in fibre, vitamin C, and various antioxidants.

Protein Powder and Vegetable Shake

Keeping your protein levels high to stay full is important, so why not use your protein shake mixed with some spinach or kale as a snack and not just save it for your pre/post workout protein needs. This really can help with cravings especially if you use a powder with a sweet flavour, and it’s very quick and easy. You can play around with this one but keeping frozen bags of spinach and bananas past their best in the freezer can be really handy to blend up - a quick, high protein healthy snack. 

Chia pudding 

You often see this one in restaurants and cafes but it’s so easy to make at home and super healthy. Mix together 1 tablespoon of chia seeds, 80ml of either almond milk or water and protein powder mixed, and leave in the fridge for 30 mins (or overnight), top with either a small dollop of almond butter or mixed berries. This really is a healthy dessert alternative that won’t let you down. Chia seeds are a high in fibre, whole-grain, usually grown organically, non-GMO and naturally free of gluten.

The key with craving for something sweet is to be smart - plan ahead so you don’t completely come off track with that tub of ice cream at 10pm.

Read next: Why You Should Be Cutting Out Breakfast

Fit Squad DXB trainers are here to help with diet and fitness goals. Book your free consultation now by calling or WhatsApping us on +971 55 542 7231 or emailing us at info@fitsquaddxb.com