Clean Eating and Stress-Relieving: Here Are 7 Snacks to Have on Hand

Survey on stress and snacking

As a result of the 2022 Food and Health Survey, the number of snackers increased 15% from 2021, with more than half reporting feeling stressed in the last six months. Plus some people who are under high-stress snack at least three times a day (1). In short, most of us are increasing our snacking as a result of stress. 

Snacking can be beneficial and healthy as long as the type of food is more wholesome. To help you eat more clean and plant-based without the stress of planning, we’ve got seven stress-relieving, clean-eating snack ideas for you:

#1 Overnight oats

Overnight oats are not only for breakfast; they also make a great snack. Oats are packed with soluble fiber, which is helpful for our gut health and helps promote digestion (2). Learn more about oat benefits alongside some quick recipes here: All You Need To Know About Oats

#2 Banana and nut butter

This simple snack can be served in multiple ways. Slice a banana and put a bit of peanut butter on each one, or just spread a nut butter of your choice (we recommend almond) on top. 

Bananas have natural carbohydrates, perfect for a post-workout snack, and nut butter is full of energizing protein and healthy fats - just make sure to get the kind without hydrogenated oils or sugar because they are not good for our heart health.

#3 Edamame 

Edamame, otherwise known as soybeans, contain plant-based complete proteins, meaning they give our bodies all the protein-building blocks (amino acids) that they need. (3) They are available shelled, in the pod, fresh, or frozen. They’re the perfect to-go snack: just cook and add a dash of salt or soy sauce.

#4 Home-made popcorn 

When popcorn is made at home without any saturated fats (such as butter) and lots of sodium, it can be clean eating and a fun snack. Popcorn kernels are full of satisfying fiber and nutrients on their own. Try out this easy recipe: Healthy popcorn in the microwave.

#5 Fruit and nuts

Any combination of fruit and nuts that you prefer will do the clean eating snack trick. It offers a prime combination of fiber and protein, which keeps you energized, satisfied and stress-free until your next meal or snack.

#6 Baked chickpeas

With just a bit of prep, these plant-based protein powerhouses are clean and help you keep lean muscle. Grab a can, drain and dry them on a towel, season with a bit of oil and herbs of choice and then roast for about 20-30 minutes on 400℉ (205℃). Enjoy now or save for later!

#7 No-bake treats

There are many variations of ingredients you can use to make raw treats. These are all wholesome and ready to take with you. Check out one of our favorites: No-Bake Chocolate Power Treats.

The clean eating way of life is all about eating whole foods, the way that nature intended. Download Lifesum to try a clean eating diet, full of lots of stress-free snacks and lots of vegetables, fruits and whole grains. 

All of the content and media on Lifesum is created and published for information purposes only. It is not intended to be used as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Users should always consult with a doctor or other health care professional for medical advice.