When you're on a low-sugar diet, it's important to take a close look at what you're snacking on. Something that might seem good for you could be loaded with added sugar that can derail your whole day. That's why we've come up with a list of the best low-sugar snacks on the market. These goodies combine protein, fiber and good-for-you fat without loading you up with the added sugar found in many processed foods and desserts. We’ve made sure that each of our picks fall in the single digits range for added sugar — meaning none contain more than 8 grams per serving.
We've also got some tips to help you the next time you head to the supermarket. First, look for snacks made with a real, whole food as the first ingredient (e.g., a packaged snack that lists "apples" instead of fruit juice puree, fruit concentrate or syrup).
Next, make sure it's as low in total sugar as possible compared to others on the shelf, and that sugar isn’t the first or second ingredient. Sneaky names for added sugar include: brown rice syrup, agave nectar, honey, maple syrup, corn syrup, high-fructose corn syrup, invert sugar, cane sugar, evaporated cane juice, molasses, caramel and glucose or glucose syrup.
Last, if you’re choosing a dairy or fruit-based snack, look for versions labeled "plain, unsweetened" instead of "original" flavor. The latter is meaningless unless the original really has zero grams of sugar added to it or there’s no sugar moniker in that ingredients list.
In general, fresh or frozen fruit or unsweetened and canned produce is always a great bet, especially when paired with nuts, seeds, and legumes to give you a hit of both protein and fiber, which will help you stay satisfied and energized, longer. To help you out, this list contains prepackaged snacks as well as easy snack ideas you can make at home.
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