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Snacks That Do Not Have Sugar

The crystallized white substance that we have come to know as sugar is one of the culprits of increasing waistlines and the ever-growing diabetic population. Added sugar is in your granola bars, your cereal and almost anything that comes from a box. Whether you're looking for a sweet treat or just a snack, there are plenty of options for snacks that have no added sugar. While fruits have natural sugars, these sugars are good for you and should not be avoided. Next time you need a snack, reach for one of these healthier options with no added sugar.

  1. Fruit

    • If you're in the mood for something sweet, but are avoiding added sugars, reach for the fruit bowl. Most fruits are perfect for a light snack. If you're looking for something a little more filling, make a fruit salad and include heavier fruits like mango and banana. In addition to having no added sugar, most fruits are low in calories and have virtually no fat. Even the fattiest fruits, like bananas, have less than one gram of fat. Fruits can also be used to sweeten other snack recipes that would normally call for refined sugar. Use homemade applesauce with no added sugar instead of refined sugar in your cookie recipes. While they may not be as sweet, they are much healthier for your body.

    Vegetables

    • Whether you prefer them cooked or raw, vegetables are loaded with vitamins and minerals. They are the ultimate power snack. Use raw carrots, red peppers and celery dipped in hummus or pile your favorite veggies on a piece of whole wheat toast with some low fat cheese. Like fruit, vegetables are low in calories and have no fat and there are so many options. If you haven't quite developed an appetite for raw veggies, make a fruit smoothie with very sweet fruits like bananas or pineapple and add a handful or two of spinach or kale.

    Nuts

    • Unlike fruit, nuts are very high in fat, but it's healthy fat and they are also sugar free. Nuts are very filling, making them a great snack to tie you over in between meals. They are packed with protein and easy to carry. Nut-based spread like peanut butter and almond butter are also healthy, sugar free options. Look for natural peanut butter with no sugar added. Combine it with bananas on whole wheat toast or spread it on apples to sweeten it. If you're watching your weight, be cautious about the serving sized when eating nuts, as they are very high in calories.

    Whole Grains

    • Whole grain breads, crackers and even cereals come with no sugar added. If you're purchasing these products at a grocery store, look at the nutritional facts. Stay away from grains that have refined sugar or high fructose corn syrup. Whole grains are a great snack when combined with fruits or nuts. You can even make your own trail mix with whole grain cereal, dried fruit and nuts.

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