When it comes to maintaining a healthy diet, snacking can be a double-edged sword. Poor snack choices can easily derail your weight loss efforts by adding unnecessary calories. However, selecting the right snacks, those rich in protein and fiber, can actually aid in shedding pounds and reaching your fitness goals. So, what should you be looking for on the store shelves if weight loss is your aim? Tara Collingwood, a seasoned sports dietitian with credentials such as MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, and ACSM-CPT, offers her expert insight into the seven best snacks to support weight loss as we step into the new year. Collingwood, who also co-authored the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, shares her top picks for healthy snacking.

For a convenient and nutritious option, Collingwood highly recommends KIND Bars, specifically their Protein or Healthy Grains varieties. “These bars are crafted from nuts, seeds, and whole grains, providing a balanced mix of protein and fiber that helps keep you satiated,” she explains. Many dietitians favor these over the more sugar-laden alternatives typically found on the market.

Choosing the right snack is crucial in maintaining a healthy diet and supporting weight loss. With expert guidance from nutritionists like Collingwood, making informed snack selections can be an easier, more rewarding part of your wellness journey.

KIND Bars (e.g., KIND Protein or KIND Healthy Grains)

Her first choice, especially for an easy grab-and-go item? KIND Bars (e.g., KIND Protein or KIND Healthy Grains). “Bars made from nuts, seeds, and whole grains. With protein and fiber help keep you full. Often recommended by dietitians as better than sugary bars,” says Collingwood.

Lesser Evil Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn

If you are a fan of popcorn, Collingwood recommends a healthier option, Lesser Evil Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn. “A lighter, whole grain, air popped snack with fewer calories Popcorn is a whole grain!” she says.

FlavaNaturals FlavaBars

FlavaNaturals FlavaBars are a great option if you have a sweet tooth. “Premium dark chocolate bars with about 500 mg of cocoa flavanols per serving which is much higher than typical dark chocolate.  Available in flavors like classic dark, blueberry dark, and roasted almond + Himalayan salt,” says Collingwood.

Bada Bean Bada Boom Crunchy Roasted Broad Bean Snack

Bada Bean Bada Boom Crunchy Roasted Broad Bean Snack is a protein and fiber fueled treat with a little bit of crunch. The plant-based protein boasts about 6 to 7 grams of protein per serving to help curb hunger and 4 to 5 grams of fiber per serving, which supports fullness and may help regulate appetite. It is also low in calories, 100 to 110 calories per 1 oz serving. “Comes in portion control bags,” Collingwood adds.

B-Sides Ranch Crunch Puffs

B-Sides Ranch Crunch Puffs are another great savory option for a plant-based snack that will curb salty cravings. “Plant-protein puffs made with oats & pea protein — savory and filling with some protein boost,” Collingwood says.

That’s It. Fruit bars

That’s It. fruit bars are a sweet treat that is the healthiest version of a fruit rollup type snack you can find. “Very simple and clean with usually just two fruits (e.g., apple + mango or apple + strawberry). No added sugar, preservatives, or fillers,” Collingwood says.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

simplyFUEL Protein Balls

simplyFUEL Protein Balls (Oat Balls) are a clean, balanced snack made with whole-food ingredients. “Made with gluten-free oats, honey, natural peanut butter, organic coconut, and almonds, 8 g protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Some versions also have probiotics,” says Collingwood.