Satisfying, Crunchy Snacking After Bariatric Surgery

Everyone Likes Snap, Crackle and Crunch!

The Problem with Crunchy Snacks Post-WLS

These tips were created for Bariatric Choice by Sharon Howard R.D., M.S., C.D.E., L.D.N., F.A.D.A., a registered dietitian and bariatric nutrition counselor.

Did you ever just want to CRUNCH? Let’s face it. Part of the enjoyment of eating comes from the sensory experiences food textures provide. For some, the act of chewing and crunching releases pent-up tension, stress and anxiety.

Crispy, crunchy foods such as pretzels, chips and other savory snacks are often the go-to food when the need to chomp sets in. However, along with crunch and snap, these traditional snack foods usually bring a hefty dose of calories and refined carbohydrates that can be problematic for those in the post-bariatric phase.

How to Choose the Right Snacks

Having bariatric surgery doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some flavor and crunch in a snack. In addition to searching for textures offering the opportunity to chew, look for a protein source in your snack. There are several ways you can enjoy crunch without sabotaging your meal plan.

Snack options that will certainly satisfy that need to munch, while providing protein to keep hunger at bay, include Wonderslim’s Pea Protein Snack chips in mouth-watering flavors such as Cool Ranch, Sweet Hickory BBQ, and Salt & Vinegar flavors. An extra large serving bag provides 10 grams protein in 140 calories, 15 grams carbs and very little fat!

The protein in these tasty snacks come from pea protein, a vegan-friendly protein source that is rich in essential amino acids, low in sugar, and cholesterol and also gluten free. Note: Cool Ranch contains other dairy ingredients. Sweet Hickory BBQ and Salt & Vinegar flavored chips are fully vegan options.

So, walk right past that vending machine to your own special high protein, satisfying crunch snack.

Healthy Ideas to Manage That Crunchy Snack Craving

Here are some other satisfying, higher protein snack ideas that also fit post-bariatric surgery diet needs:

• Celery and Peanut butter
• Crackers with low fat cheese stick
• Raw veggies with Hummus
• ½ cup Edamame
• Mini rice cakes with Laughing Cow brand cheese spread

Although crunching, chomping and chewing on healthy snacks can release stress and offer taste and enjoyment on a post-bariatric diet, remember to manage mounting tension in other non-food ways as well. Activities such as yoga or a brisk walk or calming yourself with music or journaling can also be excellent non food substitutes for managing stress and releasing tension.

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