Cravings can be a real annoyance but they don’t have to break your diet. Satisfying your cravings doesn’t have to mean going over your sodium limit either. We’ve put together some easy to make, delicious, low-sodium snacks to keep cravings at bay without sacrificing your nutrition plan!
1. Satisfying Low Sodium Snacking Alternatives
Snacking can be an important part of having balanced nutrition, but sometimes it can be a challenge to find snacks that are low in sodium. Not to worry, here are some satisfying options that you can snack on guilt-free!
Fruit and Veggies: Fruits and vegetables are always a great choice for a snack. There are a variety of fruits and vegetables, so you’ll never get bored and can switch it up from day to day! You can have a snack of grapes, or a snack of carrots with a dollop of hummus. Don’t forget to have fun with it, too – have some watermelon, or get creative with a tomato and basil sandwich. The possibilities are endless!
Nuts and Seeds: Nuts and seeds are some of nature’s most complete snacks. Not only are they deliciously crunchy, but they also contain protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Try some raw almonds, or for a sweeter snack, some pumpkin seeds with a dash of cinnamon. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try some homemade trail mix with your favorite nuts and dried fruits.
2. Relish the Flavor Without the Salt
Restaurant-style cooking can be notoriously high in sodium, causing the need to watch your sodium intake even more closely. But that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on tasty and flavourful meals. Here are some simple tips to recreate the flavours without the high salt content.
- Experiment with herbs and spices. Herbs and spices are not only packed with flavour, but many have additional health benefits. Use a variety of herbs and spices to liven up your salty dishes. Try adding basil, oregano, rosemary, tarragon, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, curry powder, ginger or nutmeg.
- Make it tangy. Acidic ingredients such as lime juice, lemon juice, vinegar or even tomato juice can give dishes a pleasant light mouth-feel when salt is missing. Think about using a combination of these flavors to really make the dish stand out.
- Consider calorie-free flavorings. There are a variety of products available, such as salt-free seasonings, to provide unique flavor combinations without the added sodium. Look for options such as Mrs. Dash® Table Blend or No Salt® Seasonings.
Don’t be afraid to get creative! You can have delicious meals at home, without compromising your sodium intake. With a little experimentation, you can make a delicious and healthy meal.
3. Your Cravings Conquered: Tasty Treats with Low Sodium
If you’re counting your sodium but don’t want to miss out on the tempting treats, there are plenty of low sodium options available. Whether you’re craving something sweet or salty, there are recipes designed specifically for those with lower-sodium diets. While some recipes may be a bit high-maintenance, others are surprisingly easy to make:
- Baked Apples with Cinnamon: Simply mix apples with a touch of cinnamon and brown sugar and bake until tender.
- Fruit and Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt, granola, and your favorite fruit for a delicious and satisfying snack.
- Banana Oat Bars: A healthier twist on the classic oatmeal cookie, with a mixture of banana, oats, honey, and a hint of cinnamon.
For those times when you are looking to indulge, try out some of these tasty low-sodium options. For a homemade version of chips and salsa, a veggie quiche with light cheese, or any of your favorite comfort foods made with reduced-sodium ingredients, you won’t miss out on the flavor. And don’t forget about desserts; they don’t have to be sacrificed on the altar of health simply because you are avoiding added sodium.
Q&A
Q: What snacks are best for curbing sodium cravings?
A: Mini carrots, celery, pumpkin seeds, and cherry tomatoes are all low sodium snacks that can help satisfy those cravings. They are also low in calories, so they’ll give you a hit of satisfaction without sabotaging your healthy eating plan.
Q: Can popcorn be a low sodium snack?
A: Absolutely! Popcorn is a great low sodium snack option. Just make sure to select one without added salt or butter, as these can ramp up the sodium content.
Q: Are whole wheat crackers a good option for low sodium snacks?
A: Absolutely! Whole wheat crackers are a great option for a low sodium snack. Try pairing them with nut butter, hummus, or low sodium cheese for an even more satisfying snack.
Q: Can low sodium snacks help control hunger?
A: Absolutely! Low sodium snacks help control hunger since they are packed with fiber and other satisfying components that are sure to keep you full until your next meal.
We hope that the ideas provided in this article will help you to better manage your cravings and still enjoy some great, satisfying snacks! With lots of fresh produce and tasty options, you can ensure that your snacks still leave you feeling satisfied and healthy!
Sodium, often considered a ‘dietary demon’, is often demonized in our culture for its ability to raise blood pressure and for its unhealthy association with overly-processed and packaged foods. But the truth is, a small amount of dietary sodium can actually be beneficial for overall health. The key is in striking a balance between too much and too little – generally speaking, doctors recommend limiting sodium intake to 2,300 mg per day. But if you’re looking to reduce your sodium intake without sacrificing your snack cravings, there are plenty of satisfying munchies that won’t leave you feeling unsatisfied.
One great option for curbing cravings is fresh fruit and vegetables. Not only does produce have incredibly low sodium levels, it also contains dietary fiber, antioxidants, and important vitamins and minerals. Apples, oranges, carrots, celery, and cucumbers are all low-sodium snacks that are packed with nutrition and are delicious.
Nuts are another wonderful option. Olives, walnuts, peanuts, and almonds are all excellent sources of healthy fats and have incredibly low sodium levels. Just be sure to keep the portion size under control, as nuts are quite calorie-dense and can easily derail your diet if eaten in excess.
Popcorn is yet another low-sodium snack that’s both filling and delicious. A plain 3-cup serving of air-popped popcorn contains just 55 mg of sodium, making it an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their daily intake. Not only is it low in sodium, but it’s also an excellent source of dietary fiber.
Lastly, there are many snack bars on the market that are surprisingly low in sodium. While they may not have the same level of freshness as other contenders, many bars are surprisingly nutritious and are a great alternative when real-life snacks aren’t available.
Overall, there are plenty of satisfying, low-sodium snacks that will help keep cravings at bay while still keeping sodium levels in check. From fresh fruit and veggies to air-popped popcorn, there are lots of options that are both delicious and nutritious. So, when the munchies strike, reach for one of these sodium-friendly snacks and munch away – guilt-free.