When it comes to nourishing our bodies, the snacks we choose can play a significant role in our overall health. While it’s important to limit your intake of processed, unhealthy snacks, it’s also a good idea to add healthy snacks to your diet. As it turns out, snacking on the right foods could support heart health and stabilize blood sugar levels.
To discover a few of the best snacks for the job, we spoke Dr. Erik Natkin, a healthcare practitioner at R2 Medical Clinic. He emphasizes the importance of mindful snacking to promote overall well-being, highlighting almonds and dark chocolate, apples and peanut butter, and edamame as three great choices. Learn more about the benefits of each below.
1. Almonds and Dark Chocolate
Who says chocolate doesn't have health benefits?! Almonds and dark chocolate combine to create a delicious and nutritious snack option that supports heart health and stabilizes blood sugar levels. Dr. Natkin highlights the benefits of almonds, stating, "Almonds are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein that help in controlling blood sugar spikes while supporting heart health by reducing levels of LDL cholesterol." Furthermore, the inclusion of dark chocolate containing at least 70% cocoa provides flavonoids known to support heart health by improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure. Dr. Natkin underscores the synergistic benefits of this pairing, noting, "Dark chocolate, at least 70% cocoa, provides flavonoids known to support heart health by improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure." Yum!
2. Apple Slices with Natural Peanut Butter
For a satisfying and nutritious snack, Dr. Natkin recommends pairing apple slices with natural peanut butter. "The fiber in the apple and the healthy fats plus protein in peanut butter create a balanced snack that helps maintain blood sugar levels while providing cardiovascular benefits," he explains. This balanced combination of nutrients not only supports heart health but also aids in weight management, an essential aspect of overall cardiovascular wellness.
3. Edamame
Dr. Natkin suggests edamame as a savory snack option that offers both cardiovascular benefits and blood sugar stabilization. "These young soybeans are a fantastic source of plant protein and fiber, which are beneficial for heart health due to their ability to manage cholesterol levels," he says. With their high protein and fiber content, edamame helps stabilize blood sugar levels and promote prolonged satiety, making it an excellent choice for individuals seeking to support their cardiovascular health while managing glycemic control.
Bottom line
Incorporating these heart-healthy snacks into your diet can not only please your taste buds but also nourish your body and support overall well-being. By making mindful choices when it comes to snacking, you can take proactive steps toward maintaining a healthy heart and stable blood sugar levels. Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized guidance.
READ MORE: 4 Healthy Snacks You’ll Actually Want To Eat–& They Help With Weight Loss
