Snacks play an important role for those who want to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. In general, a snack keeps up energy levels and, more importantly, may prevent you from consuming too much food at every meal. But we must pay attention to what kind of snack to choose. Vegetables, fruits, nuts or grains are a good choice that provide all the vitamins and nutrients that the body needs. At the same time, less than 100 calorie snacks are ideal for weight control.


Image courtesy of lancastria.net

Having a healthy balanced diet is an essential part of keeping optimum nutrition and health, but to know which foods are not dangerous for your diet or finding snacks that are low in calories can at times seem a daunting undertaking. On the other hand, there are certain foods that fit into the 100 calorie category, offering excellent options in different situations.

  • 2-3 slices of melon or a watermelon slice contains about 60 calories. Watermelon is rich in lycopene (natural pigment that gives it its red color), antioxidants as well as B vitamins essential for energy, while the melon is an excellent source of vitamin A due its beta-carotene content. It is also a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber.
  • A cup of tomato juice which contains 70 calories. As with watermelon, tomatoes are loaded with lycopene, an antioxidant that is essential to combat the formation of cancer cells. The consumption of tomatoes may reduce cholesterol and blood sugar.
  • A small banana contains about 90 calories. Bananas are mainly composed of fibers and sugars (fructose, glucose, and sucrose), so they are a great source of instant energy. They also contain iron, potassium, and vitamin B6. A banana can help reduce depression, anemia and constipation. It is effective in the prevention of hypertension and can improve nerve function and maintain healthy bones.
  • 2 tablespoons of pumpkin seeds contains about 95 calories. A pumpkin seed is one of the most healthful seeds. This seed is a natural resource of amino acids, carbohydrates, and unsaturated fatty acids. They contain vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin K and are loaded with B vitamins. They are rich in niacin, calcium, potassium and phosphorus. They are also known to have many health benefits of protecting the prostate, in the treatment of depression, osteoporosis prevention and treatment of parasites.
  • A slice of gingerbread contains about 95 calories. It’s very difficult to find a healthy dessert. You should choose those that are low in calories and fat and high in fiber and vitamins. Gingerbread is a good alternative to sweet snacks. There are many healthy recipes options available online if you choose to make your own gingerbread at home.
Keep it light and keep it healthy. 100 calorie foods can be easy to take with you on the go. The options given here are nutritious and readily available.