Nigerian cuisine is known for its flavorful and delicious dishes, but many of them can be quite high in calories and not ideal for those trying to maintain a healthy weight. However, there are plenty of Nigerian snacks that are not only delicious but also great for weight loss.
Snacking can help manage your hunger levels and prevent overeating, especially on days when meal times are far apart. It’s crucial to choose healthy snacks to ensure that you are making wise food choices. Avoiding hunger pangs by having a snack is better than letting your hunger levels reach a point where you make impulsive, unhealthy, and high-calorie food choices.
7 Amazing Nigerian Snacks for Weight Loss
Here are seven amazing Nigerian snacks that can help you stick to your weight loss goals while still satisfying your cravings.
1. Popcorn
Popcorn is a low-calorie snack that is high in fiber and antioxidants. It can be a great snack to help keep you full between meals and prevent overeating. To make it even healthier, opt for air-popped popcorn and avoid adding high-calorie toppings such as butter or cheese.
2. Plantain Chips
Plantain chips are a popular snack in Nigeria and are made by thinly slicing and frying ripe plantains. They are a great alternative to potato chips as they are lower in calories and carbohydrates. Plantains are also high in fiber, which can help you feel full for longer and prevent overeating.
3. Akara
Akara is a popular snack in Nigeria that is made from black-eyed peas and spices. It is high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a great snack for weight loss. It is also low in calories, so you can eat a lot of it without feeling guilty.
4. Moin Moin
Moin moin is a steamed Nigerian bean pudding that’s similar to akara but made with different ingredients. The base of this dish is a bean paste combined with onions, spices, and either fish, egg, or other protein sources. This snack is a great option for those looking to lose weight, as it is low in calories, with just 150 per serving, and high in fiber, which will help you feel fuller for longer periods. Eating moin moin may help you control your hunger, leading to less snacking and a lower overall calorie intake.
5. Donkwa
Donkwa is a popular Nigerian street food made from roasted, dried, and ground maize and peanuts. It is most commonly found in Northern Nigeria and is a favorite among many. This snack is tasty, easy to make, and a great option for those looking to lose weight. It is high in protein and suitable for those following a gluten-free diet, making it an ideal snack choice for those seeking to maintain a healthy weight.
6. Okpa
Okpa, also referred to as Bambara nut pudding, is made from Bambara beans or nut and is a favorite snack in the Southeast of Nigeria. With a calorie count of only 250 per cup, okpa makes for a great weight loss snack option.
In addition to its low calorie content, okpa also promotes feelings of fullness. The hot and spicy flavors of okpa can stimulate thirst, leading you to drink more water, which can help control hunger. If you’re looking for a healthy snack to aid in weight loss, give okpa a try!
7. Baked Yam Chips
Yam is a popular staple in Nigerian cuisine, and baked yam chips are a great alternative to traditional fried yam. Baked yam chips are lower in calories and fat, making them a great snack for weight loss. They are also high in fiber and essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious snack choice.
