Staying in shape means working out religiously, following a calorie deficit, and sometimes even giving up your favourite foods. So, you are always looking forward to cheat days. They are the best. You can finally relax and eat all those treats you have been dreaming about all week. Sounds so good, right? Well, what if I told you there’s no need to wait for cheat days? You can relish those salty, crunchy, sweet and savoury foods even on your diet days and satisfy your cravings. Here is a list of healthy Indian snack options that taste just as good as any junk food but healthier.

1. Popcorn

Good old popcorn is at the top of the list. It is one of the healthiest snacks because it is light and airy. The best part about popcorn is that it’s easily customisable. Just ditch the butter, air-pop them and sprinkle some nutritional yeast to indulge your taste buds.

2. Sweet potato fries 

Fries are the ultimate feel-good snacks, but they are also packed with calories. This is where their innocent and healthier cousins, sweet potato fries, step in. Bake them until they are crispy and golden. Sprinkle some salt or paprika, according to taste and munch on them till your craving is satisfied. Rumours are sweet potato fries are tastier than their greasy cousins. 

3. Makhana

Makhana is one of the healthiest snacks available in India. Easy to make, delicious to eat and also healthy. And it’s ready in just a few minutes. You can use a skillet for shallow frying or just air fry them. Add your favourite seasoning, and you have a snack that’s tasty, healthy, crunchy and flavourful. 

4. Almonds covered in dark chocolate

Sweet cravings can be the worst. It can be so hard to stop yourself from reaching out for that bar of chocolate. But dark chocolate-covered almonds have your back. Almonds have healthy fats, and dark chocolate has antioxidants. This means they go perfectly well together. They give you the sweet taste you crave as well as the crunch. Tell me a better cheat day snack combo than this!

5. Banana Ice Cream

You said ice cream on a cheat day, but make it healthy? I got you. Freeze one or more ripe bananas overnight because who eats just a little ice cream? Now blend the frozen bananas until they are smooth, and your ice cream is ready. For some extra flavour, you can add some nuts or peanut butter.

6. Greek Yoghurt

Greek yoghurt is healthy all on its own, but if you’re not a fan of the tangy taste, add some natural sweeteners like honey. You can also go for fresh fruits like berries or even dark chocolate chips to make it more delicious for your taste buds. 

7. Roasted Chickpeas

Chickpeas are very high in protein, making them perfect for a snack that keeps you full for hours. All you have to do is either bake them in the oven or air fry them and mix them with all the seasoning. If you love savoury foods, add a handful of spices to the chickpeas. However you eat them, they not only taste good but also keep your health in check.

Who thought staying away from junk food could be this easy? Whenever those cravings hit you hard, reach out for one of these healthy snacks that taste just as good, if not better.

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