Healthy Snack Alternatives to Fried Snacks

Source: Dr. Andrew Octovianus Wijaya
Editor: Danastry Intan

Fried snacks are hard to resist. They're savory, crispy, and easy to find almost anywhere. However, eating fried foods too often can significantly increase your daily intake of oil and calories. That's why many people are now looking for snack options that are lighter, more convenient, and still satisfying.

This trend is also reflected in the growing popularity of steamed and boiled foods. Options such as boiled sweet potatoes, boiled corn, and boiled peanuts are becoming increasingly popular because they are more natural, minimally processed, high in fiber, and help keep you feeling full for longer without leaving you feeling overly stuffed. Choosing these foods can be a simple way to reduce the habit of snacking on fried foods every day.(1)

In addition to steamed or boiled foods, other healthy snack options include fresh fruits, yogurt, oatmeal, dark chocolate, and nuts. According to the American Heart Association's healthy eating guidelines, these foods are among the better snack alternatives, especially for people who need to pay closer attention to their cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health. Foods fried in tropical oils (such as coconut and palm oil), butter, or animal fats tend to be higher in calories and saturated fat. Replacing them with more nutritious snacks can help support a healthier and more balanced diet.(2)

Fresh fruits are an excellent choice when you're craving something naturally sweet and refreshing. Yogurt is a great option if you're looking for a lighter, creamy snack. Oatmeal helps keep you full longer thanks to its fiber content. Meanwhile, nuts provide a convenient snack packed with healthy fats, protein, and a satisfying crunch. The key is to enjoy these foods in appropriate portions so that snacking supports a healthy lifestyle rather than contributing to excessive calorie intake.

For an even more convenient option, YAVA is a great healthy alternative to fried snacks. YAVA uses premium ingredients sourced from across Indonesia, including cashews from Bali, cacao from Sulawesi, palm sugar from Bali and Flores, coconut from Flores, and bananas from Java and Flores. YAVA Granola also combines rolled oats, puffed red rice, cashews, and dried fruits, all baked until perfectly crunchy.(3) With its delicious taste, satisfying crunch, and nutritious ingredients, YAVA is an ideal choice when you're in the mood for a snack without reaching for fried foods. It's easy to carry, convenient to enjoy anywhere, and makes a perfect companion for your daily activities.

Source:

1. Fardet, A. (2016). Minimally processed foods are more satiating and less hyperglycemic than ultra-processed foods: a preliminary study with 98 ready-to-eat foods. Food & Function, 7(5), 2338-2346.
2. Lichtenstein, A. H., et al. (2021). 2021 Dietary Guidance to Improve Cardiovascular Health: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation, 144(23), e472–e487.
3. yavabali.com