List of Healthy Snacks

1. Umeboshi

Umeboshi is a Japanese fermented plum snack. Since it is fermented fruit, it has many healthy properties. Fermentation of fruits allows for probiotic properties and is helpful with digestion, releasing toxins from the body, and relieving nausea and other stomach problems. In addition, umeboshi is alleged to prevent premature aging and provide the body with an extra boost of energy.

2. Nori

Nori is another snack originated from Japan. Nori is dried seaweed often used to wrap sushi, but is a perfectly good low calorie snack on its own. It is a source of the important vitammin B12 and contains quite a bit of protein and carbohydrates per gram. It is also a good source of iodine, a necessary nutrient for human bodies.

3. Nuts

Nuts are a great source of protein and the healthy fats the body needs to function properly. There are many different types of nuts, from almonds to walnuts, and they each have helpful properties for the body. In addition to eating nuts whole, another way to snack on these great foods is to eat butters made from them, such as almond butter or cashew butter.

4. Edamame

Edamame is an under ripe soybean snack that has many nutritional properties. It should be boiled, baked, or even microwaved before eating. Edamame is rich in protein, fiber, and Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids which make them very healthy to consume. Edamame is a good source of calcium and other micronutrients vital to good health, such as Potassium and Zinc.

5. Hard Boiled Eggs

Boiled eggs are a fantastic source of protein, but this is not the only benefit of eating eggs. One egg contains only about 70 calories, making this a filling yet low calorie snack. Eggs are a good source of Vitamin D, which can greatly reduce the possibility of depression and other disorders caused by lack of sunlight which provides humans with Vitamin D. Eggs are also a great source of the micronutrient Choline, in addition to many other micronutrients.

6. Bananas

These sweet fruits are a great source of energy for our bodies. One banana contains about 30% of the day's needed Vitamin B6, as well as containing fiber and Vitamin C. Ripe bananas contain serotonin and dopamine, chemicals which aid the brain in fighting depression and other emotional disorders. These filling fruits are not only great for sugar cravings, but are wonderful for regulating many functions in the body and may even counteract headaches.

7. Apricots

Another great sweet source of energy, apricots are a fruit which contain quite a big of nutrients our bodies need. They are a great source of Potassium, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C, fiber, and copper. These small and sweet fruits are rich in antioxidants and provide health benefits such as a decrease in risk of heart disease.

8. Dark Chocolate

Chocolate is a hugely popular treat all over the world, but did you know dark chocolate is actually really good for your body? It is high in antioxidants; it's considered one of the best sources in the world. High in fiber, iron, and magnesium, and can reduce risk of heart disease and increase brain function. It's important to only eat this high calorie food in small amounts. One bar of dark chocolate can contain up to 600 calories.

9. Carrots

Carrots are a very low calorie vegetable that is very beneficial to health. They contain a great deal of Vitamin A, and provide our bodies with Vitamin K, calcium, and other necessary micronutrients. Carrots may prevent some types of cancer as well as the deterioration of eye sight. They are also believed to regulate the levels of blood sugar and provide immune system aid.

10. Hummus

Hummus is a delicious food made from chickpeas, lemon juice, and tahini, sometimes mixed with other things. This food can be used as a dip, spread, or just eaten on its own. It is a great source of protein and healthy fats, as well as fiber and Folate. It is rich in small amounts of micronutrients and is a versatile snack.