It’s no secret that ultra-processed foods have dominated the food industry for some time now. So much so, in fact, that more than 57% of the calories consumed by Americans on a daily basis come from ultra-processed foods^[1]!

Whilst convenient and often budget-friendly, these foods pose a laundry list of health hazards – some more obvious than others.

From heart disease and obesity to depression and anxiety, the old adage ‘you are what you eat’ rears its head once more.

So, what can we do? Read on to find out more!

Risks of an ultra-processed diet

Before we look at the solution, we need to look at the problem. It’s clear that these ultra-processed foods contribute to a wide range of health conditions – we know this.

So, why are people still reaching for fast food and high calorie, ready-to-eat meals or snacks? A big part of the issue is convenience. As our time becomes more and more pressured, taking 30 minutes to source a good calorie dense snacks is not a luxury everyone can afford.

Unfortunately, whilst convenient, these ultra-processed meals and snack options are quietly contributing to a vast range of health issues. High in sugar, artificial ingredients, refined carbs, and trans fats, a diet high in ultra-processed foods can lead to weight gain, cardiovascular issues, and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. Whilst many people may wish to change their dietary habits, it is all too easy to fall back into a poor diet. In fact – did you know that ‘junk food’ stimulates your brain’s reward system in the same way addictive drugs such as cocaine do^[1]? That’s alarming. It can be a real struggle to stop the cycle and make meaningful change. So, how do we do it?

Benefits of smart snacks

When trying to change our diet for the better, one of the most effective tools at our disposal is what we call ‘smart snacks’.

In short, smart snacks are exactly what they sound like – smart food choices which not only satisfy your hunger, but also provide your body with the nutrition it needs to function at its best.

Smart snacks not only help to satisfy you in the moment, but also prevent excessive spikes in blood sugar which can cause you to ‘crash’ throughout the day. High protein snacks also keep you fuller for longer and prevent overeating at your next meal.

It’s in the name – it’s about making smart choices! Choosing options which taste good and make you feel good.

Examples of smart snacks to try

Now you know the ‘why’, it’s time to look at the ‘what’. You need some healthy snack ideas to kickstart your food revolution – we’ve got you covered.

The general rule of thumb is to look for ‘whole foods’, these are foods as close to their natural, unprocessed state as possible. For example, if you’ve got time to prepare, sliced vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots can be a great option served with a side of low-fat hummus.

If your days are hectic with not a moment to spare, don’t worry – there are a host of grab-and-go smart snacks to make proper nutrition as easy as possible.

AGErite Organics, a natural snacks provider based in Texas, offers a wide range of high protein snacks to keep you prepared all week long.

Tigernuts Enjoyed for thousands of years by ancient Egyptians, AGErite Tigernuts are non-GMO sourced nuts from Northwest Nigeria. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and nutrients, Tigernuts are a satisfying, timeless snack to keep you energized throughout the day.

Buy now for [$19.99]

West African Kampala Peanuts

Free of artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, these West African Kampala Peanuts are the perfect snack to satisfy that salty, savory craving. As a great source of protein and healthy fats, these are a guilt-free treat to enjoy at any time of the day.

Buy now for [$9.99] 

Summary

With any luck, this blog has helped to show the dangers of ultra-processed foods and what we can do to make realistic, impactful changes to our lifestyle.

Whether you’re snacking on Nigerian Tigernuts or a platter of fruits and vegetables, making long-term change is a marathon, not a sprint. Experiment with a range of healthy snack ideas to find what works for you, and never look back.

Here’s to a happier, healthier future for everyone! 

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