By Quentin Arthur

If you are trying to lose weight, it can be hard to fight the urge to snack.  Plus, treats full of salt and sugar are tempting to buy at the grocery store.  Before you reach for the junk food, try out one of these five tasty, healthy snacks instead.

Hummus
Hummus paired with delicious olives, cucumbers and cherry tomatoes makes for a delicious savory snack with a Mediterranean vibe.  High in fiber, low in fat, and bursting with flavor, this snack feels more like a meal and leaves you feeling fuller for longer.  Substitute celery stalks, carrots or cucumber spears for pita bread to keep this snack low-fat and low-carb.  Make sure that you watch portion sizes to avoid piling on pounds as opposed to losing them.

Oatmeal, Yogurt, and Raisins
Another filling option, oatmeal with yogurt and raisins is a great snack to keep hunger pangs at bay and regulate sugar levels, so you do not feel lethargic while trying to lose weight.  Enjoy this treat by topping a single serving of oatmeal with a handful of berries and a three-ounce serving of low-fat yogurt.

Mini Frittatas
Frittatas are a high-protein snack that can help you manage hunger pangs while providing lots of nutrition.  Bake eggs with low-fat milk, peppers, zucchini, carrot and other low-fat vegetables for a filling and healthy meal.  Use a mini muffin pan to produce bite-sized pieces that you can enjoy with a salad or on their own.

Banana and Peanut Butter
Indulge your sweet and savory taste buds with a banana and a tablespoon of peanut butter.  The banana will provide much-needed energy to tackle the day, while peanut butter is rich in both fats and protein, which leaves you feeling fuller for longer.

Kale Chips
Kale chips are a low-carb and low-fat alternative to conventional potato chips.  They are packed with antioxidants and are a great source of vitamins B and K.  Kale chips are extremely versatile and can be prepared in a variety of ways to satisfy all types of palates.  They can be prepared from the comfort of your home or purchased from the healthy snack section of your grocery store. 

You can still lose weight while enjoying snacks.  Remember to go for treats that are full of vitamins and low in salt and sugar.  There are many options you can buy at the grocery store or if you are feeling creative, you can make your own nutritious snacks at home.