Written by, Christine Chanel

We’ve all been there. That unconventional crave—whether it be before lunch or conveniently, as soon as you lay down to go to bed. We’ve compiled a list of snacks that keep you satisfied. 

Hunger hits us when we least expect it. When the grumble strikes, it’s easy to head into the kitchen or pull into the closest gas station for some fast-action indulgence. Your snacking habits could be even more frustrating to manage if you’re one of the lucky ones with a sweet tooth problem because once that sugar-high crashes back down to normal levels, you’re even hungrier (or thirstier if you’re a sugary-drink lover)! Your mind is boggled because it feels like you just had a snack or meal only an hour ago, and now you’re shushing your belly grumbles again. You’re not crazy.

Snacks that keep you satisfied always contain protein to fight cravings.

What’s in the pantry?

By nature, of course, we feel the urge to feast on anything easily in sight. When you’re feeling starved, snacks that keep you satisfied are misleading keeping you coming back for more. Potato chips, cookies, pastries, sugar-logged candy bars, or even a combination of all of it—satisfying both sweet and savory cravings. Rather than reaching for sugar-loaded, highly-processed foods, it is essential to neutralize your crave-y mindset and contemplate the situation before making a choice that could potentially have you feeling ill after. Stocking up on protein-packed treats will help you nourish your body while eliminating your cravings. Overall, a smarter pantry will keep you satisfied.

RED is crafted with all-natural sweeteners derived from melons, all while delivering buttery, creamy flavor without the added refined sugar. 40% less fat and 35% fewer calories than other leading chocolates. RED is low carb, reduced calorie, reduced fat, gluten-free, Kosher certified, and vegetarian. RED is also Weight Watchers, Whole30, Keto, and Atkins friendly. RED can add an extra bit of something special to any crave-curbing snack you desire without the unwanted sugar.

Snacks to Keep you Satisfied

1. RED Avocado Chocolate Mousse 

Chocolate mousse is one of the most decadent desserts, but also too high in fat. Full of cream and sugar, it is neither keto-friendly nor an option for people who avoid decadent dairy. Replacing the heavy whipping cream with avocado leaves you with a mousse packed with omega-3 fatty acids (healthy fat), beta-carotene, and lutein (antioxidants), plus magnesium and potassium (minerals). Vitamins C, E, and K are also present, along with B vitamins: folate (B9), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), and riboflavin (B2).

Guess what else? It also has many antioxidants, making for a pretty awesome midnight snack when you want to feel pampered. Here’s our version.

2. Ants on a log 

You either make this for your child, or you have not had it since being a child. But, believe it or not, this kid-friendly snack should continue to have a special place in your heart. This protein-packed snack takes less than 5 minutes to assemble, and it’s tasty for any time of the day. Although, it should be noted that your peanut butter does matter since most of our store found favorites are loaded with processed oils and fillers. Luckily, EatThisNotThat has produced a helpful list to ensure you the best peanut butter hunting experience. (Might we suggest you could even add some bits of chocolate to your log if you’re feelin’ fancy)

3. Dark Chocolate Dipped Bananas 

Yet again, we revisit a nostalgic favorite. Put the ice cream tub back—these are a perfect summer snack when you’re in the mood for something both cold and sweet. Bananas are a great source of potassium while also providing you with natural energy, which will also be enhanced by the benefits of antioxidant-rich dark chocolate. Cut up your banana, stick in a popsicle stick, double boil some RED Dark Chocolate, dip, roll in chopped walnuts, freeze and enjoy a nutritious snack that will keep your cravings away!

 4. Dessert Hummus with fruit

If you have yet to jump on the dessert hummus train—all aboard. Carrots and pita bread were so last year. This under-5-minute snack will leave your tastebuds happy and your tummy full. Garbanzo beans are loaded with protein and fiber—a whopping 3 grams of protein per one ounce. While most of the protein mainly comes from carbs, they may not be ideal for every diet, but they are certainly a vital staple to those following a plant-based diet. To make DIY dessert hummus. Wash and drain a can of garbanzo beans, squeeze in honey or your sweetener of choice, nut butter, cocoa powder, and chopped chocolate into your food processor and enjoy with any fruit imaginable.

5. Trail Mix & Greek Yogurt 

Instead of a carb-based morning meal, or pastry, try reaching for the greek yogurt. Studies show that greek yogurt is loaded with fiber and protein, meaning that it will take you longer to digest. You may also want to substitute your typical granola for a healthy and hearty trail mix. Forget the store-bought brands and experiment with your own homemade quality trail mix. This way, you can be sure you have your favorite craving-crushing ingredients on hand at all times. The perfect trail mix will always come in handy for those moments where you need a boost of energy, and you need a boost, fast! Try our trail mix recipe. 

6. Rice Cakes With Almond Butter & Dark Chocolate Shavings

Rice cakes are a fantastic alternative for when you crave something crunchy like potato chips. Opt for rice cakes made from brown rice because they tend to be high in fiber, which helps you satisfy your grain requirements for the day. The healthy carbohydrates will keep your energy levels pumping without leaving you to feel weighed down. For a perfect afternoon snack, add a protein punch by spreading on your favorite almond butter and shaving off a heaping of RED Dark chocolate for extra flavor.

Snacks that keep you satified ward off eating unhealthy foods or drinking your calories away with sugary soda. We hope these tips will help make better food choices.