The Healthiest Junk Food Options for a Guilt-Free Snack
Ever thought junk food could be part of a balanced diet? It turns out, it doesn’t always have to be bad for you. When you’re rushing and want something delicious, there are good options at fast food places and in snack aisles. For example, Popeyes’ Blackened Chicken Tenders are high in protein. But, if you’re looking for something lower in calories, Dairy Queen’s Kid’s Cone is a great choice. You can find tasty junk food that’s actually good for you without adding too many calories. Let’s explore some unexpected options full of flavor and nutrients.
Key Takeaways
- Popeyes’ Blackened Chicken Tenders serve up 43 grams of protein with only 280 calories.
- A simple Checkers cheeseburger, with extra veggies, offers a balanced junk food meal at 330 calories.
- Customize Chipotle’s Salad Bowls with greens, beans, and proteins for a nutritious junk food option.
- Domino’s Pacific Veggie Thin Crust pizza provides a low-calorie, flavorful option at 200 calories per serving.
- Dairy Queen’s Kid’s Cone offers a sweet treat with only 160 calories, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
What is the unhealthies snack?
The worst unhealthy snacks often look good and taste great. But, they’re bad for us when it comes to nutrition. Eating these snacks can really mess up my health goals. For instance, just a small bit of trail mix has about 400 calories! Also, many sports drinks are full of sugar.
I love store-bought smoothies, but I was shocked to find they have over 700 calories. Even a small frozen meal has too much salt for one day. I found out pretzels, which I thought were a good snack, are high in both calories and salt.
Reading labels has shown me the truth about some snacks. Some protein bars have lots of sugar. Rice cakes might be low-calorie, but they don’t have much fiber. And fat-free salad dressings use too much sugar or salt to make up for lost fat.
I’ve learned that eating too many baked chips can make me eat too much. The following table shows how many calories and bad nutrients some popular snacks have:
| Snack | Calories | Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) | Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cheetos Flamin’ Hot Tangy Chili Fusion | 170 | 10 | 1.5 | 200 | 19 | 1 | 1 |
| Ritz Bits Cheese Sandwich Crackers | 160 | 9 | 3 | 160 | 19 | 4 | 2 |
| Snyder’s Hot Buffalo Wing Pretzel Pieces | 140 | 7 | 3 | 380 | 17 | 0 | 2 |
| Kellogg’s Frosted Strawberry Poptarts | 370 | 9 | 3 | 320 | 70 | 30 | 3 |
| Doritos Nacho Cheese | 150 | 8 | 1 | 210 | 18 | 2 | 1 |
| Fritos Chili Cheese Corn Chips | 160 | 10 | 1.5 | 210 | 16 | 1 | 2 |
| Little Debbie Double Decker Oatmeal Creme Pies | 500 | 19 | 9 | 450 | 78 | 40 | 4 |
| Hot Pockets | 320 | 15 | 6 | 660 | 36 | 5 | 11 |
| Hostess Twinkies | 280 | 9 | 4 | 370 | 47 | 32 | 2 |
| Lay’s Sour Cream & Onion Chips | 160 | 10 | 1.5 | 200 | 15 | 2 | 2 |
Next time I reach for a snack, I’ll definitely keep these nutritional downfalls in mind to make better choices!
What to eat instead of junk food?
Feeling like snacking on junk food? There are many healthier options to try out. These healthy junk food alternatives and nutritious snack choices can help you stay healthy and enjoy what you eat.
Start your morning right with Denny’s Loaded Veggie Omelet. It’s filled with vegetables, and you get fruit on the side instead of potatoes. This breakfast has lots of protein and is only 500 calories.
At lunch, go for Au Bon Pain’s Mediterranean Salad. It’s got lots of veggies and chickpeas, plus it’s healthy and tasty at 350 calories.
Craving fast food that’s good for you? The Jack in the Box Chicken Fajita Pita is a great option. With fresh veggies and chicken in a whole grain pita, it’s only 330 calories.
Snack on fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a light, low-calorie choice. Strawberries have 46 calories and 3 grams of fiber in a cup. Blueberries have 84 calories and 4 grams of fiber in a cup.
If you like sweets, go for a bit of dark chocolate. Chocolate with 70–85% cocoa is full of antioxidants. It can help with blood pressure and brain function.
Looking for snacks to help lose weight? Try popcorn. It’s a whole grain that’s low in calories, high in fiber, and aids in weight loss.
Remember the good in almonds and pistachios. Almonds can lower bad cholesterol, and pistachios better your blood fats and lower bad cholesterol.
Another great snack is hummus, which comes from chickpeas. It can lower insulin and bad cholesterol levels.
Adding these healthy junk food alternatives to your diet is a great move. They make you healthier while still letting you enjoy tasty treats.
What snack is filling but low in calories?
Finding the best low-calorie filling snacks might seem hard. But, good options exist. They fill you up are still low in calories. For instance, the Mediterranean Bowl with Chicken at Panera Bread is a perfect choice. This dish is packed with veggies, grains, and protein. It includes rich fiber and healthy fats, all under 640 calories. Panda Express’s String Bean Chicken Breast is also a great pick. It’s only 190 calories and includes chicken, veggies, and a ginger soy sauce.
High-fiber, low-calorie snacks are a smart choice. Let’s look at some top picks:
| Food | Calories | Protein | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Oats (1/2 cup) | 154 | 5g | 4g |
| Nonfat Greek Yogurt (1 cup) | 150 | 25g | — |
| Air-popped Popcorn (1 cup) | 31 | 1.2g | 1.2g |
| Chia Seeds (1 ounce) | 138 | 4.7g | 9.8g |
| Cooked Lentils (1 cup) | 230 | 18g | 15.6g |
| Blueberries (1 cup) | 86 | — | 3.6g |
| Low-fat Cottage Cheese (1 cup) | 163 | 28g | — |
| Baked Potato with Skin (medium) | 161 | 4g | 4g |
| Cooked Chicken Breast (4 ounces) | 163 | 32g | — |
Pair high-fiber snacks with chia seeds or air-popped popcorn. They make a healthy and filling snack. Dry oats, nonfat Greek yogurt, or a lentil dish are tasty options. These fiber-rich snacks keep you full and your calories down.
What foods can I snack on all day?
Maintaining a healthy diet while enjoying all-day snacking options is doable. You can find snacks that are tasty, good for you, and easy to have anytime. They help keep you full without ruining your health plan.
Popcorn is a great choice. Six cups are just 100 calories. They have 6g of fiber, which makes them a great filling snack. Baby carrots dipped in hummus also work well. They’re crunchy, fill you up, and are under 100 calories with no cholesterol.
Cottage cheese paired with cantaloupe is another strong option. It gives you 14g of protein in a half cup of cottage cheese. This is only 100 total calories when you add in a small piece of cantaloupe. Nonfat plain Greek yogurt is a good choice too. It has 12g of protein in half a cup. Add a bit of honey to sweeten it and keep it under 100 calories.
For those who like savory snacks, pistachios are a healthy pick. Just 20 pistachios are 80 calories, with less than 1g of saturated fat and no sodium. If you prefer a crunch, try jicama root sticks dipped in salsa. They’re crunchy and low-calorie, with very little saturated fat.
Let’s not forget the protein options. Hard-boiled eggs are not just filling but full of nutritional benefits. They have vitamin D and choline. Edamame is another good choice. With 18 grams of protein in a cup, it’s perfect for snacking all day.
| Snack | Calories | Protein | Other Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Popcorn (6 cups) | 100 | 3g | 6g fiber |
| Baby Carrots with Hummus (8 large carrots + 2 tbsp hummus) | 100 | 2g | 0 mg cholesterol |
| Cottage Cheese with Cantaloupe (1/2 cup + small wedge) | 100 | 14g | Sweet and creamy |
| Nonfat Greek Yogurt with Honey (1/2 cup + 1 tsp honey) | 84 | 12g | High in protein |
| 20 Pistachios | 80 | 3g | Less than 1g of saturated fat, sodium-free |
| Jicama Root Sticks with Salsa | 54 | 1g | 0.03g saturated fat |
| Hard-Boiled Egg (1 large egg) | 78 | 6g | Rich in vitamin D and choline |
| Edamame (1 cup) | 188 | 18g | High in plant-based protein |
These healthy continuous snacks are perfect to satisfy your appetite all day while keeping you healthy.
What’s the healthiest late night snack?
We all face those late-night cravings, but choosing the right snack is key. Finding healthy late-night snacks is not hard. Take a glass of 100% tart cherry juice with 159 calories. Or, go for dried tart cherries. A quarter cup has 133 calories and offers sweetness. For something with fewer calories, try two kiwi fruits. They have 84 calories and are rich in fiber and vitamin C. They’re a great pick for guilt-free night eats.
A small banana paired with a tablespoon of unsweetened almond butter is 190 calories. It gives you carbs and good fats. If you like smoothies, a low-fat milk and pineapple mix at 160 calories is creamy and refreshing.
| Snack | Calories | Nutrition Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 100% Tart Cherry Juice (8 oz) | 159 | Sweet, refreshing |
| Dried Tart Cherries (1/4 cup) | 133 | Chewy, high antioxidants |
| Two Kiwi Fruits | 84 | High in fiber and vitamin C |
| Small Banana with Almond Butter | 190 | Rich in healthy fats |
| Low-Fat Milk and Pineapple Smoothie | 160 | Creamy, tropical |
For savory snacks, try four whole wheat crackers and a stick of reduced-fat cheddar cheese at 145 calories. This mix is rich in protein and fiber. A 3/4-cup of oats is 124 calories and full of fiber. It’s a warm, comforting choice.
Craving something crunchy? A quarter-cup of trail mix with 173 calories or pumpkin seeds at 158 calories are good picks. Greek yogurt is light with just 104 calories but high in protein and probiotics.
There are many guilt-free night eats to choose from. Enjoy a snack that fits your tastes and health needs. These choices are both delicious and light.
What to eat instead of chips?
When you crave that crunch, it’s easy to grab chips. But, many other snacks are healthier and just as satisfying. For example, Qdoba’s Paleo Chicken Salad has 300 calories. It’s less in sodium and bad fats but has more fiber. This makes it a wise option. Au Bon Pain’s Mediterranean Salad is another great choice. It’s full of nutrients and stands out from greasy snacks.
Looking at homemade snacks can introduce you to yummy and healthy options:
- Kale chips: Offer fiber, antioxidants, vitamin A, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin C, and potassium.
- Baked zucchini chips: Rich in vitamin B6 and antioxidants.
- Roasted chickpeas: Contain fat, fiber, and protein.
- Banana chips: A good source of potassium and healthy carbs.
- Green bean chips: Provide antioxidants, potassium, and calcium.
- Apple chips: Offer vitamins A and C, calcium, potassium, and iron.
An easy switch can be made with this handy table:
| Traditional Snack | Healthier Chip Substitutes | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Potato Chips | Kale Chips | Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. |
| French Fries | Carrot Fries | High in potassium, antioxidants, and beta-carotene. |
| Nachos | Roasted Chickpeas | Protein-packed and offers good fats. |
Changing your snacks for these healthier options can really help your health. When you want something crunchy, pick from these. It will make snack time better for you.
What snack can you eat as much as you want?
No snack can be eaten without limits. But, some choices are full of nutrition and are low in calories. These snacks can be enjoyed freely without feeling guilty. This can also help control your hunger and keep your blood sugar steady.
Including more fruits and veggies in your snacks is a smart move. Few people eat the recommended amount. For example, a snack of baby carrots and a little blue cheese dressing is under 190 calories. It’s a tasty, low-calorie treat that’s full of fiber and vitamins.
An idea like a red bell pepper with guacamole is also under 200 calories. It offers antioxidants and tastes really good. Nuts, if you don’t eat too many, are another good choice. They’re packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber. This mix can help with losing weight.
Here’s a list of snacks that fill you up without many calories:
| Snack | Calories |
|---|---|
| Red Bell Pepper with Guacamole | Under 200 |
| Greek Yogurt with Mixed Berries | Approx. 150 |
| Baby Carrots with Blue Cheese Dressing | Under 190 |
| Kale Chips | Approx. 110 per serving |
| Edamame | Approx. 188 per cup |
For snacks that give you a good amount of protein, try Greek yogurt with berries. It’s also low in calories. Cottage cheese and fruit is another good option. It’s sweet and creamy, and it’s full of protein and nutrients too.
If you’re in the mood for something crunchy, kale chips are a great idea. They’re high in fiber and antioxidants. Dark chocolate almonds are tasty too. They offer antioxidants and protein for a healthier snack.
What food should I eat to lose weight?
Choosing the right foods is key to losing weight. Go for weight loss foods that fill you up but have low calories. This will help curb your hunger and keep you energized.
Taco Bell’s Power Menu Bowl – Veggie is a top pick for dieting. Depending on what you add, it can be 190 to 930 calories. It’s nutritious and tasty, making it a great option.
Subway’s Turkey Breast Sandwich is also a good choice. Without cheese and loaded with veggies, it’s only 280 calories. You’ll get plenty of protein and essential nutrients, perfect for your diet.
Adding nutrient-rich snacks to your diet is smart. For instance, nuts bring many health benefits, including weight loss. A red bell pepper with guacamole is under 200 calories and full of good nutrients.Greek yogurt with berries is another great snack. It’s high in protein and antioxidants.
Don’t forget about eggs. They’re packed with protein and keep you full. Eating them could help lower your heart disease risk. Try boiled eggs as a simple, nutritious snack.
| Snack | Calories | Nutrients |
|---|---|---|
| Power Menu Bowl – Veggie (Taco Bell) | 190 – 930 | Customizable, depending on add-ons |
| Turkey Breast Sandwich (Subway) | 280 | Balanced nutrition, high protein |
| Greek Yogurt with Berries | 150 – 200 | High protein, antioxidants |
| Red Bell Pepper with Guacamole | Fiber, healthy fats | |
| Boiled Eggs | 78 per egg | High protein |
Focusing on snacks like these can help you lose weight, while feeling satisfied. With some planning and smart choices, you can enjoy low-calorie snacks on your weight loss journey.
What is the best snack to lose weight?
When you’re trying to lose weight, picking the right snack is key. A great choice is Chipotle’s Burrito Bowl. It has brown rice, beans, and veggies. This bowl is a powerful mix of 655 calories that are high in protein and fiber. It’s a meal that won’t spoil your plans to cut those calories.
Greek yogurt mixed with berries is another top pick. It’s full of protein and antioxidants. These help keep your muscles strong and fight harmful free radicals. With its low calorie count, it’s not only great for losing weight but will also keep you energetic.
For those who like some crunch, kale chips are a tasty option. Add a bit of olive oil for a boost in fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals. This not only makes for a flavorful snack but a very healthy one too. The olive oil adds good fats, which are great for feeling full and keeping with your diet.
And then, there’s the classic duo of apples and peanuts. Apples are rich in fiber, and peanuts bring in healthy fats and plant protein. Together, they make a snack that’s both filling and balanced. It’s ideal for those aiming for the best snacks to support their weight loss journey.
FAQ
What’s the healthiest junk food to eat?
Indulging in junk food doesn’t have to mess up your diet. For example, you can try Popeyes’ Blackened Chicken Tenders. They have bold flavors and lots of protein, only 280 calories and 43g of protein. Another good pick is Checkers’ cheeseburger with extra veggies. It’s a balanced choice at 330 calories. For more variety, Chipotle’s Salad Bowls let you add greens, beans, and your choice of meat. If you like pizza, try Domino’s Pacific Veggie Thin Crust. It gives you nutrients and taste at 200 calories per serving. Even for sweets, Dairy Queen’s Kid’s Cone is a good choice at 160 calories.
What is the unhealthiest snack?
The worst snacks are full of sugar, fats, and sodium. Fast food and packaged snacks often have too much of these bad things. Always check the nutrition facts and pick snacks lower in sugar and sodium. This step will be healthier for you.
What to eat instead of junk food?
Healthier options can satisfy your cravings without being bad for you. Au Bon Pain’s Mediterranean Salad is full of veggies and chickpeas, just 350 calories. Denny’s Loaded Veggie Omelet and fruit is a protein-packed choice with 500 calories. Jack in the Box’s Chicken Fajita Pita is another smart option. It has fresh veggies and grilled chicken in a whole grain pita for only 330 calories.
What snack is filling but low in calories?
For a snack that’s filling yet light, consider Panera Bread’s Mediterranean Bowl With Chicken. It has veggies, grains, and protein at 640 calories. Panda Express’s String Bean Chicken Breast is another good pick, at just 190 calories. It has chicken and veggies in a mild ginger soy sauce.
What foods can I snack on all day?
For snacks all day, choose options like Starbucks’ Eggs and Cheddar Protein Box at 460 calories. Panda Express’s String Bean Chicken Breast is perfect too, at 190 calories. It gives you the protein you need.
What’s the healthiest late night snack?
Good late-night snacks include White Castle’s Original Slider. It’s a great protein source at 140 calories. The Veggie Slider is a lighter choice and better for late-night munchies.
What to eat instead of chips?
To satisfy your crunchy urge in a healthy way, think about Qdoba’s Paleo Chicken Salad at 300 calories. It has less sodium and fat than chips. Another option is Au Bon Pain’s Mediterranean Salad. It provides a nutritious crunch with plenty of veggies.
What snack can you eat as much as you want?
Even though unlimited snacks aren’t really a thing, you can enjoy options like Chic-fil-A’s Market Salad. It’s full of fruits and veggies at 540 calories. Panera Bread’s Fuji Apple Salad with Chicken is another good choice. At 640 calories, it’s nutritious and tasty in moderation.
What food should I eat to lose weight?
If you want to lose weight, some good choices include Taco Bell’s Power Menu Bowl – Veggie. It has 190 to 930 calories, depending on how you customize it. Subway’s Turkey Breast Sandwich without cheese is also great. Loaded with veggies, it offers balanced nutrition at 280 calories.
What is the best snack to lose weight?
Great snack options for weight loss are Chipotle’s Burrito Bowl. Top it with brown rice, beans, and veggies for 655 calories. Domino’s Thin-Crust Pizza with chicken and veggies is also good. It’s about 143 calories per slice, depending on the toppings.
