Low Calorie Snacks for Vegetarians

If you are trying to lose weight the "old-fashioned" way -- through diet and exercise, you know that eating well is essential. What is also important, is eating healthy, staying satisfied, and having some variety. Also helpful to a successful weight loss, are having healthy low calorie snacks on hand for when cravings hit.

Craving salty foods?

A hard-boiled egg sprinkled with sea salt -- protein helps you stay full longer, and this snack is only about 75 calories.

Celery and herbed cream cheese -- try a tablespoon or two of cream cheese (low fat if you prefer) melted in the microwave for 20 seconds -- mix with sea salt, garlic, onion, and fresh herbs of your choice. Spread on celery sticks and store in the fridge for several days. This is between 100-200 calories.

Popcorn with sea salt

Half a pita wedge stuffed with chopped veggies drizzled with vinegar and a bit of olive oil -- about 150 calories

A few tortilla chips with a tablespoon of beans, a half serving of cheese, and some salsa is about 175 calories

Craving sweet foods?

Whipped cream (believe it or not!) layered with strawberries in a parfait cup is only about 75 calories!

Puree some fruit with stevia and freeze -- puree for a moment before eating -- this can be as little as 30 calories and tastes almost like sorbet.

Fat-free chocolate pudding (gelatin-free) is good for calming a chocolate craving.

Three Hershey kisses are about 100 calories -- not too filling, but helps a chocolate craving. Just stop at three!!

The truth is, when trying to lose weight you can eat pretty much whatever you want, within reason. The key is, to maintain appropriate portion sized and not to over-indulge. Also, being honest with yourself about exactly how many calories you are consuming is important.

Planning meals, especially snacks, helps you feel full and satisfied and also aids in keeping you on track!

Good luck on your journey!