Last update:November 14, 2024, 6:45 PM IST

With conscious choices, anyone can make nutritious snacks a realistic part of their daily routine.

Walnuts, almonds and peanuts, as well as sunflower and pumpkin seeds, are protein-rich, omega-rich brain foods and great snacks (Photo: Shutterstock)

Healthy snacking is often seen as an expensive, tasteless and time-consuming endeavor, yet nutrition and health experts are quick to dispel these misconceptions.

Nutritionist Kommal Vishant explains how affordable healthy snacking can be when approached strategically. “People often think that healthy snacking means spending a lot of money, but that’s not necessarily true,” she says. In her experience, some of the most nutritious snacks are quite affordable if chosen carefully. Nuts and seeds, for example, provide essential nutrients such as healthy fats, protein and vitamins, and buying them in bulk can significantly reduce snacking costs, making fresh fruits and vegetables a great, budget-friendly option.

“Most things masquerading as ‘healthy food’ in supermarkets are more expensive simply because of the packaging or brand, not their nutritional value,” adds Vishant. A simple apple with a handful of almonds, she notes, can be just as nutritious and satisfying as any other. branded snack — at a fraction of the price.

Taste is another common sticking point, with many people assuming that healthy snacks are bland or unappetizing. Dr. Manmohan Singh, MD in Medical Affairs, challenges this myth, noting that healthy snacks can be full of flavor. “There’s a widespread myth that healthy snacks are pretty bland,” he notes.

“But healthy snacks can come in an incredibly wide range of flavors and textures.” Singh suggests simple combinations like hummus with vegetables or yogurt parfaits topped with fruit and nuts, which offer satisfying tastes and textures without added sugars or artificial preservatives. herbs, spices or a touch of natural sweetness from honey or cinnamon can transform simple snacks into delicious options Dr. Singh believes that the idea of ​​healthy snacks like rice cakes or raw vegetables are outdated.

For those concerned about the time investment, Pathik Patel, founder of Fit and Flex, emphasizes that healthy snacking doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. “One of the biggest misconceptions about healthy snacking is that it’s hard to fit into a busy lifestyle,” says Patel. He explains that many nutrient-rich snacks, such as pre-cut vegetable bars, protein smoothies or snacks, can be prepared. in minutes and are easy to take on the go For Patel, healthy snacking means making simple, intentional choices that align with long-term health goals. “Once people realize that good decisions are indeed possible and achievable, they will be much more likely to incorporate them into their daily lives,” he says.

Together, these experts reveal that healthy snacks can be affordable, flavorful, and convenient. With conscious choices, anyone can make nutritious snacks a realistic part of their daily routine.