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5 Protein-Packed, Dairy-Free Snacks I Eat on Repeat to Burn Fat and Balance Cortisol

One weight loss expert reveals some creative and delicious ideas. 
FACT CHECKED BY Alek Korab

Are you looking for some snack ideas that will help you burn fat, balance cortisol, and lose weight? Tarah Schulte is a weight loss coach who helps mothers get into the best shape possible. She is also a weight loss warrior who dropped 20 pounds in 4 months and regularly shares tips and tricks on how to do the same. "5 snacks I eat on repeat to balance cortisol and burn body fat," she writes across the Instagram video.

Protein Is Essential for Weight Loss

"Protein is essential for cortisol balance and burning fat," she adds in the post. But, as a mom, it can be hard to get it in every day! It's like we spend every day thinking about protein just to fall short. But I'm here to help you reach that goal!"

She Aims for 130 Grams Per Day

How much protein does she consume in a day? "My personal goal is 130g, but I recommend no less than 100g daily!" she reveals, going on to list her 5 dairy-free snacks I eat on repeat!

1. Beef Jerky and Apple Sauce

Her first go-to snack? Beef jerky and an apple sauce pouch. "Super easy to take on the go," she writes. One 20-gram piece of beef jerky offers an average of 7 grams of protein. However, that number will vary based on the brand. Be sure to select your jerky carefully. Many have added sugar, which means added calories.

2. Apple Dip

Her next snack offers a hint of sweetness and lots of fiber: Apple Dip. She makes it with a mix of dairy-free yogurt and adds PB2, "or your favorite protein powder," she writes. Then, she slices up an apple and dips each piece in the mixture.

3. Snack Cakes

Her third protein-packed snack? Snack cakes. These are rice cakes topped with hummus and deli meat and cucumber or tomato. Hummus, made with garbanzo beans, is a great source of protein. As for deli meat, stick to non-processed options.

4. Protein Shake Plus Berries or Nuts

A quick snack that can be easily grabbed and eaten on the go? A protein shake plus berries or nuts, she says. Again, choose your protein shake carefully, paying close attention to ingredients and staying away from packaged drinks that are high in sugar and calories.

5. Boiled Eggs

The last item on her list? Hard-boiled eggs, "egg flight" style, she adds. This is basically a modern take on deviled eggs, adding spices and other ingredients instead of the traditional mayo mixture. Each large hard-boiled egg offers 6 grams of protein.

Incorporate Strength Training

In another post, she reveals some more of her go-to healthy habits, including doing 30-minute strength training workouts from home. Why? "Because these will fit in your day easier. You can wake up 30 min earlier or do it while your kiddos play nearby. This allows you to be more consistent, which means you'll see results more quickly! Aim for 3-5 a week. If you can't do that, at least commit to 8k daily steps to start out!" she writes.

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is also crucial, according to Tarah. "Get at least 6-7 hours of sleep every night (so don't plan to read your book for 3 hours at 9 pm 👀)," she says. What are the health benefits of sleep? According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z's is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

And, Don't Overlook Hydration

Hydration is also important. "Drink your water! & I mean a minimum of half your body weight in oz of water!! 80+ oz is a good place to start! And add electrolytes! (If you need a quality electrolyte recommendation, just ask me in the comments, and I can send it over!)" According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is important for a variety of reasons. Water helps get rid of waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature normal, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

 

Leah Groth
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related. Read more