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The #1 Problem with Calorie-Tracking Apps, According to a DietitianIn our digital age, calorie-counting apps have become the go-to tool for health-conscious individuals looking to lose weight, maintain fitness levels and gain better insight into their eating habits. But are these apps helping or hindering your progress toward your health and fitness goals?Getty ImagesWith Food, Culture Matters: This App Matches People with Dietitians Based on CultureA recent Instagram post by Abbey Sharp, RD, registered dietitian and creator of the popular food blog and YouTube channel Abbey's Kitchen, discusses the potential pitfalls of such apps.She examples the number one problem with calorie-tracking apps is that: "A calorie to you is not a calorie to me because [calories] are not absolute values," said Sharp in the Instagram video. "How many calories are in a food is not just about the total available calories, but it's specifically about how many calories you can uniquely absorb, and that is determined by your unique gut microbiome."What Are Calories and How Many Do You Need?According to a 2022 meta-review published in Nutrients, the bacteria found in the microbiomes of people who had BMIs that were classified as obese were different from people with BMIs not classified as obese. "These microbes can also produce substances like short-chain fatty acids which can act as signaling molecules to affect our appetite, and therefore our caloric intake. The type of bacteria in our gut is affected by a number of factors, some of which may be very difficult or potentially impossible to change," explained Sharp in the post.Given that many users often regard the data from these apps as definitive, it's jarring to discover the inherent risk of relying on them for healthy weight management. Researchers in a 2019 study published in the Health Informatics Journal noted that while calorie-tracking apps may work well as guidelines, they shouldn't be used as a stand-alone tool for nutritional guidance or used in place of healthy eating habits and healthy lifestyle habits.By becoming over-reliant on these digital tools, you risk losing connection with your body's natural hunger and fullness cues. Over time, this can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food and discourage intuitive eating. Moreover, like all technology, calorie-tracking apps aren't immune to the occasional malfunction or glitch, leading to potential misinformation or lost data."If you're calorie counting, this is just one of many reasons I suggest using it more as a ballpark or guideline rather than an absolute mathematics equation," said Sharp. "Like just about everything else to do with our body, including our natural size, everyone's calorie absorption will be unique." The Bottom Line In a recent Instagram post, registered dietitian and YouTuber Abbey Sharp highlights the limitations and pitfalls of relying too heavily on calorie-tracking apps. While these apps might seem like a helpful weight management tool, the complexities of your body's unique ability to absorb calories, as determined by factors like your gut microbiome, require a more nuanced approach to calorie-tracking. As a guiding principle, focus on eating whole foods, listening to your body's hunger and fullness signals, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Remember: healthy eating is more about nourishment than it should be about numbers.Read Next: Want to Quit Calorie Counting for Good? This Dietitian Shares Her Easy TipsWas this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!Tell us why!OtherSubmit |
The Best Collagen Powders, According to a DietitianWe independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.Collagen is the "it" ingredient these days. After all, it's now a regular add-in to items like smoothies and smoothie bowls at home, your gym café or neighborhood smoothie shop. And for good reason because taking collagen regularly (even every day) may help your skin appear younger and less wrinkly, speed up wound healing, help with recovery from a hard weight-lifting session, strengthen your hair and bones, and ease joint pain.So, if you want to add a collagen supplement to your regimen, which collagen powder should you take? Here, we've compiled a list of the best collagen powders. We started by rounding up a list of top sellers and then whittled the list down to collagen powders that are also third-party verified for quality. Then—to finalize our list—we asked a dietitian to weigh in.Editor's Note: Because collagen protein powders are considered supplements, they aren't closely regulated by the government. There are third-party verifying companies, such as the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), that test dietary supplement quality. Products that pass their standards are allowed to display that fact on their packaging. When it comes to collagen, though, we found that NSF seems to do the most testing. USP didn't have any collagen products listed as tested by them on their website.Our Product RecommendationsBest Overall: Vital Proteins Original Collagen PeptideBest for Convenience: Bubs Naturals Collagen Protein 20 Stick PacksBest for Athletes: Momentous Collagen Peptides Powder Best for Skin, Hair and Nails: Vital Proteins Beauty Collagen Best Overall: Vital Proteins Original Collagen Peptide AmazonBuy on AmazonBuy on WalmartBuy on Vitalproteins.comWhat we like: It only takes one scoop and mixes well with hot or cold liquids.What to know: The canisters are filled by weight and might look like they're not full.Vital Proteins is the leader in the collagen powder market, and rightfully so, with such a diverse product line. But their OG—Original Collagen Peptides—is their bestseller for a reason: one scoop gives you 20 grams of collagen as well as hyaluronic acid (HA) and vitamin C. According to a 2021 study in Nutrients, consuming 120 mg of HA for 12 weeks improved wrinkle control in men and women ages 35 to 64.Vital Proteins is also soluble in hot or cold liquids. It is made from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows and is not only Paleo-friendly but Whole30 approved.Throw it in your coffee or smoothie in the morning, and since it's odorless and tasteless, you won't even know it's there. Plus, there are no artificial additives or sweeteners. Need more convincing? This product is also third-party certified by NSF.Price at time of publish: $30Available sizes: 9.33 ounces | Item form: Powder | Servings: 13 or 28 Best for Convenience: Bubs Naturals Collagen Protein 20 Stick Packs AmazonBuy on AmazonBuy on Bubsnaturals.comWhat we like: The stick packs are very convenient for when you're on the go.What to know: Quite pricey if you follow their recommendation to take 2 stick packs a day.Ideal for on-the-go living or travel, each of Bubs' single-serve stick packs delivers 20 grams of collagen protein. There's just one ingredient—bovine collagen—and nothing more added. Keto, Paleo and Whole30 diet approved, this collagen protein is undetectable, with no odor or taste. It's also hydrolyzed (so it dissolves very easily!) and is third-party verified by NSF.This company believes in giving back, and 10% of all profits go to the Glen Doherty Memorial Foundation—which provides educational and recreational support to soldiers and their families—and they also offer a discount to military and first responders on the purchase of their products.Price at time of publish: $37Available size: 7 ounces | Item form: Powder | Servings: 20 Best for Athletes: Momentous Collagen Peptides Powder AmazonBuy on AmazonBuy on Livemomentous.comWhat we like: It contains Fortigel, a type of collagen that supports cartilage and joint health, making it a great option for athletes.What to know: There is a slight taste.Calling athletes and weekend warriors alike … Momentous as a brand is designed for athletes and other highly active individuals. Their collagen peptides powder specifically delivers two types of proprietary collagen—one targets your joints and cartilage (Fortigel, a patented form of collagen hydrolysate), and the other is a grass-fed bovine collagen peptide that's good for hair, skin and nails. An added plus is that this collagen peptide powder includes 50mg of vitamin C which is a plus as C is involved in collagen production in the body. Momentous Collagen Peptides Powder is NSF Certified—as the others on this list are—and is also third-party verified by Informed Sport.Price at time of publish: $52Available size: 17.92 ounces | Item form: Powder | Servings: 30 Best for Skin, Hair and Nails: Vital Proteins Beauty Collagen AmazonBuy on AmazonBuy on WalmartBuy on Vitalproteins.comWhat we like: This Vital Proteins offering is intended to support skin, hair and nail health. It's available in a canister or single-serve sticks.What to know: It's pricey for a 2-week supply.If healthier skin, nails, hair and/or joints is your goal, the Beauty Collagen from Vital Proteins is a great choice. Not only do you get collagen peptides, but there are also hyaluronic acid and probiotics added to the powder (note that there is no evidence that probiotics support the potential effect of collagen protein). It comes in three flavors—Lavender Lemon, Tropical Hibiscus and Strawberry Lemon—in a canister or single-serve sticks. Just stir it into hot or cold beverages, from juice, smoothies or tea, or sprinkle it into foods such as yogurt, oatmeal or more. And remember, Vital Proteins' products are NSF-certified.Price at time of publish: $27Available size: 9.6 ounces | Item form: Powder | Servings: 14 The Bottom Line: The Best Collagen Powder Overall, we like the Vital Proteins Original Collagen Peptides (view at Amazon) the best, not only for its taste and the addition of vitamin C but also because it is sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised cattle. If you're looking for convenience, then the Bubs Natural Collagen Protein stick packs (view at Amazon) are the way to go. What Is Collagen? Collagen brings strength, structure and elasticity to our connective tissues, tendons, ligaments, bones and skin. But as we age, our body becomes less efficient at producing collagen. According to 2019 Molecules research, by age 40, we lose about 1% of our collagen every year, and by around age 80, we have 75% less collagen than a young adult.While there are a total of 28 types of collagen that have been discovered, there are five that are the most common. Type I is the most abundant in our body, making up over 90% of the collagen in the human body, according to StatPearls. This form of collagen is in the skin, bone, teeth, tendons, ligaments and organs, according to the same study in Molecules. Type II is in cartilage and type III is in mostly the skin, muscle and blood vessels. Type IV is in what's called the epithelial tissue layers, which cover body surfaces and line body cavities. And then type V is one of the main elements of cell surfaces and the placenta. But from a supplement standpoint, you'll mostly find types I, II and III.There are foods that are naturally rich in collagen. And there are other forms of collagen supplements, like capsules and liquid. There are also so-called vegan collagen supplements on the market, and they don't actually contain collagen (collagen is inherently not vegan). Instead, these products are comprised of other ingredients said to stimulate collagen production.But arguably the most popular way to up your collagen intake is with a collagen powder. Collagen powders can be extracted from a few different sources, with the most common being bovine (cattle), porcine (pigs), ovine (sheep), chicken and fish (usually labeled "marine" collagen). Choosing a Collagen Powder Look for "Collagen Peptides" or "Hydrolyzed Collagen" Often you'll see collagen powders labeled as such, and these terms are pretty much synonyms. Collagen peptides are hydrolyzed collagen, which means the collagen has been broken down into smaller units so that it's more easily digestible. Another easy way to tell what you're getting is to see if the instructions say you can dissolve the powder in hot or cold water. If the powder is easy to mix in either temperature, then it's been fully hydrolyzed.Hydrolyzed collagen has been shown to have anti-aging benefits when it comes to skin. A 2019 study in Nutrients found that drinking a beverage with 2.5g of hydrolyzed collagen improved skin hydration, elasticity and smoothness compared to a drink without collagen. Check the Collagen Type What's most common is type I, II and III—sometimes they're found together in a powder supplement, while other times they're solo, or the product has a combo of two of them.If you're taking collagen for the anti-aging benefits, look for type I, or a combo of type I and III. Both are found in the skin and support skin health (think: improved skin hydration, firmness and texture, as well as fewer wrinkles, per a review study in 2019 in the journal Molecules).If you're interested in collagen for its joint health benefits and some pain relief, look for type II. Remember, this is the collagen found in cartilage. A 2023 Nutrients review concluded that studies show type II collagen or hydrolyzed collagen are safe and effective in reducing the symptoms of osteoarthritis, but that further research is needed. Frequently Asked Questions What does collagen powder do for you, and is it good to take it every day? "It can have a positive impact on skin health and elasticity, as well as bone and joint health," says Raeanne Sarazen, M.A., RDN, author of The Complete Recipe Writing Guide. Many collagen supplement manufacturers recommend that people take collagen every day—and there's research that shows this could be helpful. While the US doesn't have recommendations on how much or how little collagen you should aim for each day, "the European Food Safety Authority recommends 10g hydrolyzed collagen as the maximum daily dose," says Sarazen. What's the best type of collagen? The most common supplements available are either type I, II, III or a blend of these. Since type I makes up nearly 90% of the collagen in our bodies, this is the most commonly recommended supplement. Also, the practical uses of any supplement are to replace what is lost naturally through aging, and the vast majority of the collagen we lose is Type I. While there is no disadvantage to a blended or combination product, any version you take should have a much higher percentage of type I for maximum benefit in replenishing that type of collagen in your body. Who shouldn't take collagen? "People who have allergies (e.g., fish, eggs and shellfish) should be careful and aware of collagen sources and ingredients before using these supplements," says Sarazen.And also, as with any supplement, you should consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance, and to ensure that adding a collagen regimen is appropriate for your needs—and isn't contraindicated with your current medications or any conditions you may have.Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!Tell us why!OtherSubmit |
Is It Safe to Eat Expired Eggs?One of the longest-lasting things in your refrigerator just might be that carton of eggs you bought to make egg bites or an omelet. Even if it's been in there a couple of weeks (or longer!), it's likely that the eggs are still safe to eat, according to experts. "One of the great things about eggs is they'll keep for more than a month when properly stored," says Elisa Maloberti, manager of special projects and food safety at the American Egg Board. Here we break down what you need to know about eggs and expiration dates.Do Food Expiration Dates Really Mean Anything?Getty Images How Eggs Are Dated "Those expiration dates are on some egg cartons to make sure that retailers don't keep eggs on shelves past a certain date," Maloberti says. "However, eggs can be safely eaten two to three weeks past that date. Depending on where [you live], the expiration date may be labeled as Sell By, Use By, Exp. By or Best By."If you'd like to dig deeper, it's good to know that cartons from plants that produce Department of Agriculture-graded eggs must display what's called a Julian date, which is the day of the year the eggs were packed. On those egg cartons, if an expiration date appears, it can be no more than 30 days after the pack date.8 Foods That Last Way Longer Than the Expiration Date"As long as they're kept properly refrigerated at 40°F or lower, fresh eggs are safe to eat four to five weeks beyond the carton's Julian date," Maloberti says. How to find that date? "It's usually found on the short side of the carton and represents the consecutive days of the year, with the number 001 as January 1 and December 31 as 365."EatingWell How to Keep Eggs Fresh for Longer All eggs should be stored in a refrigerator that's been set at 40°F or lower. And where those eggs are stored within the fridge also can make a difference, Maloberti says. "It's best to place them on an inside shelf, and not in the door," she says. "Repeated opening and closing of the door causes temperature fluctuations, and slamming it shut can result in [eggshell] breakage." Also, she suggests keeping things easy on yourself and just storing them right in the carton they came in. "Cartons will keep eggs from picking up odors and flavors from other foods, and they'll prevent moisture loss," she says5 Risky Refrigerator Mistakes You're Probably Making—Plus, What to Do About Them Is That a Bad Egg? How do eggs deteriorate anyway? Maloberti explains: "An eggshell has thousands of tiny pores that allow air to pass through. As it ages, the egg's quality will gradually degrade. The white becomes thinner, the yolk becomes flatter and the yolk membrane weakens. Although these changes may affect appearance, they don't indicate spoilage and don't have any great effect on the nutritional quality of the egg or its functions in recipes."She notes that eggs rarely spoil, but if you keep them refrigerated long enough, they're more likely to simply dry up due to natural exchange of gas and moisture through the shell pores. "Eventually, probably in a year or more, you'll find nothing but a yellow sheen on the inside of the shell when you crack it," she says.Use only eggs with shells that are clean, unbroken and free from debris. If you find a broken and leaking egg, discard it right away. Also, she says, it's smart to "discard any eggs with shells that don't look or feel clean and dry. A slimy feel can indicate bacterial growth, and, regardless of color, powdery spots that come off on your hand may indicate mold." Could This Egg Make Me Sick? Salmonella bacteria, if present at all, can be in both the egg white and yolk, Maloberti says: "If eggs are kept at warm temperatures, it's possible for bacteria to reach the nutrient-dense yolk, where it can grow over time. But [in] a clean, uncracked egg, in which refrigerated conditions have been maintained and cross-contamination has been prevented, internal contamination occurs only rarely." Why Older Eggs Are Easier to Peel It can be challenging to peel a hard-boiled egg, especially when bits of shell persist in clinging to the egg white, giving you a pockmarked finished product. According to Maloberti, the secret to an easier peel is to buy them a week before boiling. "Very fresh eggs can be difficult to peel," she explains. "For the easiest-peeling eggs, buy and refrigerate them 7 to 10 days before boiling. This brief 'breather' allows the eggs time to take in air, which helps separate the membranes from the shell." The Food and Drug Administration recommends refrigerating hard-boiled eggs (peeled or unpeeled) for up to one week. Bottom Line Eggs are a delicious, nutritious protein source. While each carton of eggs is marked with an expiration date, if properly stored at 40°F or lower, they should be safe to eat for longer—usually two to three weeks past the expiration date. If you need healthy recipes to use up the eggs in your refrigerator, try one of these delicious egg recipes.Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!Tell us why!OtherSubmit |
What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Almond Butter Daily … or Every Other DayOnce upon a time, peanut butter was the only nut butter widely available, but not anymore. Nowadays, countless types of nut butters line grocery store shelves. Almond butter has quickly gained ground as a popular alternative to peanut butter, and for good reason. It's packed with micronutrients, heart-healthy fats and fiber, all of which benefit your health. To help you decide if almond butter is right for you, we'll be breaking down the nutrient composition of almond butter, its health benefits and potential drawbacks. Of course, we'll also share our favorite ways to incorporate almond butter into meals and snacks.Pictured Recipe: Almond Butter Chocolate Chip CookiesEva Kolenko Almond Butter Nutrition Facts The specific nutrient composition of almond butter can vary slightly from brand to brand, with the biggest difference being whether the product has added sugars or not. Many plain almond butters are free from added sugar, whereas flavored alternatives often have added sugars or sweeteners.Here's an example of two almond butters from the same brand. The ingredients in Justin's Classic Almond Butter are dry-roasted almonds and palm oil (sustainably sourced). On the other hand, its honey-flavored almond butter contains dry-roasted almonds, palm oil, organic honey, organic powdered sugar and sea salt.Nutrient1 (2-Tbsp.) serving of Justin's Classic Almond Butter1 (2-Tbsp.) serving of Justin's Honey Almond ButterCalories220200Total Carbohydrates5 g8 gDietary Fiber3 g2 gAdded Sugars0 g4 gProtein6 g6 gTotal Fat19 g16 gSaturated Fat3 g3 gSodium10 mg80 mgCalcium80 mg50 mgIron1.1 mg0.7 mg Health Benefits of Almond Butter Delivers Significant Amounts of Vitamin E Almond butter is high in a variety of micronutrients, but it stands out for its vitamin E content. Marie Bieber, RD, CDN, CSP, owner of Pearls of Nutrition, says, "Approximately 90% of Americans do not consume adequate levels of vitamin E, an important fat-soluble antioxidant which works to protect our cell membranes from oxidative damage. It is also helpful in the prevention of heart disease." Almond butter contains about 4 milligrams of vitamin E per serving—that's 26% of the recommended daily intake for adults, per the National Institutes of Health. Provides Heart-Healthy Unsaturated Fats You may have noticed that almond butter is pretty high in fat, but not all types of fat are equal. Almond butter is high in unsaturated fats, which promote heart health. They help raise HDL (known as "good" cholesterol) and lower LDL (known as "bad" cholesterol). The fat content also helps you stay satiated for longer, potentially helping you make more mindful snacking and food choices.These benefits are backed by research. A 2020 review published in Nutrition and Metabolic Insights sums up the many benefits of almonds, including an increase in HDL cholesterol and a decrease in LDL and total cholesterol levels. Promotes Blood Sugar Control According to a 2021 controlled trial published in Frontiers in Nutrition, almonds are a great option for blood sugar management. The study suggests that eating almonds helps decrease A1C, which indicates your average blood sugar levels over two to three months. Almonds have even been shown to reduce insulin resistance! This is largely thanks to their fiber, protein and unsaturated fat content. These nutrients are digested more slowly than carbs and don't raise your blood sugars nearly as much. May Boost Your Gut Health Almond butter contains fiber, which has a myriad of health benefits. One of these is boosting gut health. A 2022 study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (funded by the Almond Board of California) found that almond consumption increased levels of butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid key to digestive health. Butyrate supports your gut wall, which helps healthy gut bacteria to flourish and reduces inflammation.What Happens to Your Body When You Have Inflammation Potential Downsides Not Suitable for Nut Allergies Despite all its benefits, people with nut allergies may need to avoid almond butter. If you have a peanut allergy, you should be OK to have almond butter, but if you are allergic to tree nuts, you'll probably need to stay away. That said, talk to your health care provider to help determine what's safe for you. High in Oxalates If you have a history of calcium oxalate kidney stones, you may want to be mindful of your almond butter intake. Almonds are pretty high in oxalates, even compared with other nuts. However, Bieber acknowledges, "Dietitians typically no longer recommend a low-oxalate diet for kidney stones, as this style of eating removes many nutritious choices and only approximately 10% urinary oxalates come from food; the remainder are made within the body." If you have a history of kidney stones, speak with your health care team about the best plan of action for you. 4 Ways to Enjoy Almond Butter On Toast One of the easiest ways to eat almond butter is to spread some on a slice of toast. The toast adds carbohydrates, and if you go with a whole-wheat option, you'll boost the fiber content of the meal or snack too. Try our Almond Butter & Roasted Grape Toast for a satisfying start to your day or an afternoon boost. In Baked Goods Adding almond butter to your favorite baking recipe helps add creaminess and richness without adding tons of saturated fat. One of our favorites is almond butter cookies. Check out our Garam Masala-Almond Butter Breakfast Cookies. They're rich in fiber and heart-healthy fats and have a deliciously unique flavor profile. With Fruit Sometimes, fruit alone just won't cut it. If you're trying to up your fruit and veggie intake but find yourself reaching for energy-dense options instead, why not opt for fruit plus almond butter? The fats and protein in the almond butter will help promote satiety, while the fruit adds a refreshing taste and a hydration and fiber boost. For inspo, check out our Apple with Cinnamon Almond Butter snack recipe.The #1 Snack to Eat When You Need an Energy Boost In a Smoothie Smoothies are an easy, on-the-go way to get in a lot of nutrition. Loading a smoothie with fruits, veggies, yogurt, nuts or seeds can make for a well-rounded, nutrient-dense breakfast or snack. Almond butter makes a great addition to any smoothie. It adds creaminess and a delicious nutty flavor to help hold you over until your next meal or snack. Our Almond Butter & Banana Protein Smoothie is high in fiber, protein, iron and calcium. And, did we mention it's absolutely delicious? Frequently Asked Questions Is almond butter healthier than peanut butter? Peanut butter and almond butter have similar macronutrient profiles. That being said, their micronutrient profiles are a little different. Bieber explains, "Compared to peanut butter, almond butter is higher in calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, manganese and vitamin E. Peanut butter contains higher levels of selenium, B vitamins thiamin, niacin, B6, biotin and folate." Can you eat almond butter every day? Almond butter can absolutely be enjoyed every day. Most of the studies that found the myriad benefits of almonds had participants consume them daily. That being said, almond butter without added sugars will be the closest to whole almonds and, therefore, the most health-promoting. So if you make almond butter a part of your daily routine, your best bet is leaning toward the plain kind. Is almond butter good for weight loss? Almond butter promotes satiety, which may help prevent mindless snacking or deprivation-driven binge eating. Research has shown that although almonds are high in calories, eating them may not lead to weight gain. However, almond consumption has not resulted in sustainable, long-term weight loss either. Which nut butter is the healthiest? While nut butters vary a bit in micronutrient composition, they are quite similar overall and have health benefits. Bieber says, "The nut butter someone chooses depends on personal preference and budget. If someone is able to and interested in choosing the most optimal nut butter, I suggest rotating through various types so as to enjoy the unique nutritional benefits each can provide." The Bottom Line Almond butter is a nutritious food to add to your routine. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, specifically vitamin E, fiber and heart-healthy fats. As a result, it can boost your heart health and gut health and help with blood sugar management. However, be careful if you have a nut allergy or a history of kidney stones, as it is also high in oxalates. For those interested in incorporating almond butter regularly, there's no shortage of options. Our Chocolate Chip Almond Butter Cookies are a great place to start!Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!Tell us why!OtherSubmit |
I Have Chronic Inflammation & These Are the Anti-Inflammatory Snacks I Always Have on Hand I used to gravitate toward snacks like wasabi peas and spicy chips to relieve my midday hunger. But after being diagnosed with ocular rosacea—chronic inflammation in my face and eyes—I realized these snacks were actually causing the flare-ups in my skin to worsen.Adjusting my eating habits to my condition has been a challenge, but I believe that I've finally found the snacks that, alongside my anti-inflammatory meals, are actually helping reduce the inflammation in my face. From savory chips and puffs to fruity and filling treats, here are the snacks that I always stock my kitchen with for a quick bite.I Have Chronic Inflammation & These Are the Easy Anti-Inflammatory Breakfasts I Make on Repeat Dark Chocolate-Covered Almonds Almonds alone are an easy, protein-packed handful that keep me satisfied between meals. When I'm looking for a sweeter bite, chocolate-covered almonds are the way to go. Unless it's around the holidays, I don't usually dip them myself, so I buy these Hu Chocolate Covered Almonds with Sea Salt for a delicious sweet-savory balance. But I'm not picky—I also like these Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds from Walgreens when I need an easy grab-and-go snack.My recipe for 3-Ingredient Chocolate & Almond Butter Dates is another way to enjoy this flavor combination. Yogurt Filling and delicious, I can dress up yogurt for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a snack and be completely content in any scenario. Greek yogurt is already anti-inflammatory as is, but adding granola or mixed berries brings it to the next level. My go-to yogurt brands are Chobani for their Strawberry on the Bottom Nonfat Greek Yogurt and Ratio's Keto-Friendly Vanilla Yogurt (I'm not interested in following the keto diet, but mixing in cinnamon and blueberries to this yogurt transforms it into a dessert).For more ways to elevate your plain yogurt, try it with strawberries or with this Sweet 'n' Crunchy Yogurt Topping. Chickpea Puffs I'll talk about my favorite chips in a moment, but sometimes snacking on a mini bag of chips or pretzels doesn't satisfy me. That probably has to do with the lack of fiber and protein in the salty snacks. However, Hippeas Chickpea Puffs have been a staple in my household for years. Made with chickpeas, these are crispy puffs worth dreaming about. My favorite flavor—Vegan White Cheddar—is packed with 4 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber per serving, so they're enjoyable for a midday pick-me-up.Roasted chickpeas on their own are also delicious, easy and crunchy–and they're quick to meal-prep at home. Whether you want savory Everything-Bagel Crispy Chickpeas or sweet Cinnamon-Sugar Roasted Chickpeas, you'll look forward to adding these recipes into your lunchbox.6 Packable Snacks Coming to Trader Joe's This Month Granola Bars It's basic, but you can't go wrong with a granola bar. Making granola bars at home is the best way to go for nutritional value, and these Cranberry-Almond Granola Bars are a great place to start. However, more often than not I'm buying pre-made bars, so when I do, I try to look for options that aren't loaded with added sugar. My current favorite granola bars are these MadeGood Gluten-Free Mixed Berry Granola Bars. They're soft, packed with vegetable extracts and are allergen-free, making them a practical option for packing anywhere. Raspberries I love berries in all of their forms, and any raspberries in my fridge are gone within a day. My partner describes them as "nature's candy," and I don't think I can explain them better myself. Raspberries aren't just an anti-inflammatory treat, but they're also a gut-healthy and heart-healthy fruit packed with fiber and antioxidants. Eat them as-is or include them in your smoothies or yogurt for a fulfilling snack. Buy them frozen, too, to keep on hand longer. Sweet Potato Chips Step aside, regular potato chips—there's an anti-inflammatory version that's just as delicious. Sweet potato chips are easy to make at home. Just pop thinly sliced sweet potatoes in your air fryer and season them as you'd like for the perfect crunch. They last up to three days when stored in an airtight container, so they're simple to make ahead for quick snacking later. Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber and potassium, and they can also help reduce inflammation. What's not to love? For a packaged version that's just as tasty if you have limited time on your hands, these Terra No-Salt-Added Sweet Potato Chips are what you're looking for.Up next: I Have Chronic Inflammation & These Are the Easy Anti-Inflammatory Lunches I Make on RepeatWas this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!Tell us why!OtherSubmit |
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