Snacking is fun. And we all love to snack! There’s just something about munching on a delicious snack when you are feeling peckish that is comforting. Snacking is also a great way to fill your body with the nutrients and energy it needs during busy days.

Snacking is an important ingredient in a healthy diet, but it’s easy to go wrong and end up eating more calories than you need. The key is to have healthy snacks on hand that are easy to grab and eat. These tips can help:

• Choose healthy snacks. 

No-fat or low-fat cheese and whole-wheat crackers, an apple with peanut butter, or celery sticks with low-fat cream cheese are all nutritious choices.

• Plan ahead. 

Buy plenty of healthy snacks so they’ll be available when hunger strikes.

• Eat regularly and mindfully. 

Portion out some of your snacks into a bowl so that you aren’t tempted to eat the entire bag or box. And remember to pay attention to what you’re eating and how much you’re eating, because mindless snacking is easily overeating.

Here are some healthy, tasty, low-fat snacks

• Veggies and hummus

Eating more veggies can benefit health in countless ways and reduce your risk of many chronic conditions, including heart disease. Vegetables can be easily paired with a protein source like hummus — a creamy spread made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, salt, and lemon juice.

Pairing low-calorie, fiber-rich veggies like broccoli, radishes, celery, or bell peppers with protein-rich hummus makes a satisfying snack that is sure to keep you feeling full in between meals without adding a lot of calories.

• Apple slices with natural peanut butter

Though apples are a filling and healthy choice on their own, pairing them with natural peanut butter is an even better option. Peanut butter is packed with protein, the most filling of the three macronutrients — protein, carbs, and fat. Research shows that adding peanut butter to your diet can help reduce hunger and maintain healthy body weight.

• Coconut Chips

Coconut chips are not only delicious but also high in healthy fats and fiber, making them an excellent substitution for potato chips.

• Hard-boiled Egg

Eggs are often referred to as “nature’s multivitamin.” One large, hard-boiled egg has just 78 calories — yet is packed with vitamin B12, vitamin A, selenium, phosphorus, healthy fats, and over 6 grams of filling protein. Hard-boiled eggs are a portable and convenient snack that pairs well with other healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, nuts, and cheese.

• Greek yogurt with berries 

Greek yogurt is packed with protein and vital nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Meanwhile, berries are loaded with fiber and disease-fighting antioxidants, which help prevent cellular damage in your body.

• Toasted pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds are rich in nutrients, including protein, magnesium, zinc, potassium, copper, and manganese — all of which are vital for keeping your bones strong and healthy.

• Plantain chips and guacamole

Plantains are similar to bananas but have a starchier, more neutral flavor. When sliced and cooked, they make excellent alternatives to potato chips.

Pairing plantains with guacamole — a dip made with avocados, lime juice, onions, salt, and various herbs — makes a smart snack choice, as both are loaded with fiber and other beneficial nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

• Oatmeal

Oats are high in fiber and protein, which are digested at a slower rate and can help stabilize blood sugar.

In conclusion, Snacking on foods that are high in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals can improve your health and even help you stay on track with your weight loss efforts