I have lost over 50 pounds since going vegan, and it has taken me a lot of trials and tribulations to see what foods really work for FAT loss. My #1 tip is to avoid processed vegan snacks that label themselves as “healthy.” These can contain a lot of added oils and fats that are hidden behind labels such as “high protein” or “gluten-free.” It is best to make your own snacks when trying to lose weight so you know EXACTLY what you are consuming.
An important point to mention is FAT = FAT. If you are eating processed foods packed with oils, that will hinder your weight loss progress significantly. Whole food fats such as nuts and seeds are good in moderation, but focus more on whole, fiber-rich foods instead. During my weight loss journey, I will have a 100 calorie pack of almonds every now and again because it helps me not overeat on my fats and keeps them in moderation.
1.Dairy-free Yogurt with Berries
This is one of my favorite snacks that feels indulgent but isn’t! The trick is to sweeten your own dairy-free yogurt because a lot of the ones on the market have an EXCESSIVE amount of added sugar. Sugar isn’t necessarily bad for you, but if you’re trying to watch your waist, it’s best to avoid processed sugar and empty calories as much as possible. Therefore, I buy Silk Unsweetened Plain Yogurt and measure out a serving size with a few drops of Sweetleaf Liquid Stevia Vanilla Creme with a couple of strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries. It is delicious, low-calorie, and high-protein! I don’t add granola to mine, but if you want to, make sure the granola is oil-free and lower in sugar. I like Engine 2’s Blueberry Vanilla Granola because it is only sweetened with a small amount of maple syrup and it’s oil-free (I find it at Whole Foods). Muesli is great too!
2. Edamame
I personally LOVE edamame, so this snack doesn’t really seem like a weight loss snack even though its perfect for it! Edamame is extremely high in protein, high in fiber, and low in fat which makes it the ideal weight loss snack – vegan or not. You can season your edamame with liquid aminos, salt and pepper or just eat as is. I also like the dry roasted Wasabi Edamame – very delicious and HOT!!
3. Healthy, Sugar-free, Oil-free Cookies
I have a big sweet tooth, so that can always be my downfall when trying to lose weight. I knew I couldn’t deprive myself of sweet food, so I decided to make a healthy version instead! And honestly, you would never be able to tell that these cookies are “healthy.” I modified my recipe for Gluten-free Almond Chocolate Chippers by substituting the maple syrup for monk fruit syrup (which isn’t necessary), added a little Swerve granulated sugar for added sweetness, and replaced the coconut oil with room-temperature almond butter. I used all the same measurements, just simply add a tablespoon or two of Swerve to sweeten it to your liking (this is completely optional) and 1 tablespoon of plant-milk to make them more moist. I also used Lily’s Stevia Sweetened Dark Chocolate Chips that have absolutely no PROCESSED sugar, just stevia. These are a definite must on a weight loss journey if you like sweet food, but don’t want all the fat and sugar. These cookies are high in protein and have no sugar or oil!
4. Brown Rice Crackers
The great characteristic that makes brown rice crackers so great for weight loss are that they are extremely satiating: keeping you fuller longer, and can be used in almost any flavor combination. You can make these sweet or savory. Enjoy a brown rice cracker with some PBfit Peanut Butter Powder and strawberries, a tablespoon of almond butter and a few Lily’s Chocolate Chips, or oil-free hummus with cucumbers and capers. The combinations are endless, but make sure to not overdo the toppings with heavy fats. Keep it within a serving size and you’ll have a delicious, healthy treat in your hands!
5. Berry Smoothie
When losing weight, people can really get carried away with smoothies making them good for GAINING healthy weight and not losing weight. If you are trying to lose weight, don’t add tons of nut butters or fruit juices to your smoothies because one can easily get carried away with these ingredients. Those smoothies are great for maintaining or gaining weight, but not for what we are looking for. Smoothies for weight loss should include a serving of berries, some greens such as spinach or kale, low-sugar protein powder (I use Vega Sport Performance or Orgain Organic Protein Powder), and unsweetened plant milks. If you want to add oats to make the smoothie more satiating, add about 2 tablespoons or half a banana!
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