The Best Sugar-Free Snacks To Keep On Hand

Whether you already live a completely sugar-free lifestyle or want to start cutting down on your sugar intake, there are a variety of delicious and nutritious snack options that'll keep you full without spiking blood sugar levels. This can be especially important for diabetic snackers, but it's always a good idea to watch your sugar consumption closely: the sweet stuff is best enjoyed in moderation.

With that in mind, it's not always easy to make healthy, sugar-free snack choices. It's especially difficult when you find yourself stuck without food at home to choose from that fits your dietary needs. That's why you should consider keeping a steady supply of sugar-free snacks in your kitchen for when you're ready to chow down.

The low-sugar (or no sugar!) snack options below are packed with nutrients like potassium and healthy fats to help you eat something delicious and nutritious while avoiding sugar-heavy treats. Here are some of the best sugar-free snacks to keep on hand.

Hard-Boiled Eggs

Eggs make a perfect, tasty, and versatile snack. One of the best and simplest ways to consume eggs is by hard-boiling a batch, peeling them, and then refrigerating the eggs to eat whenever you're hungry. You can make a dozen or more at a time that'll keep nicely in the fridge. Grab a few for a snack that's chock-full of protein; add salt and pepper for a quick breakfast bite; or dress up salads with a sliced hard-boiled egg on top. The possibilities are endless!

Popcorn

Popcorn isn't just something you munch on at the movies. Without all that greasy butter and salt, it's one of the best (and easiest!) sugar-free snacks to keep on hand. Choose kernels you can pop yourself at home for a high-fiber, sugar-free, and low-calorie snack that will keep you full one handful at a time. Snack on a bowl of freshly popped popcorn just like you would potato chips—only without the added calories and fat. Spoiler: It tastes just as good!

Almonds

Almonds are quick, plentiful, and easy to find. They also come in various grab-and-go packages, making them a great sugar-free option to pick up and chow down on whenever hunger sets in. They not only lower blood sugar levels, but they also come packed with protein, nutrients, and healthy fats. While they're higher in calories than other sugar-free snacks, they're a tasty alternative to sugary sweets and salty foods that will fill you up when you need something fast to munch on.

Hummus

Everyone loves hummus, the flavorful dip made from a swirl of chickpeas and tahini that pairs perfectly with crudité. Grab some whole-grain crackers and dig in with plain hummus, which is a great source of protein and fiber, or make it a meal by adding additional veggies. Explore hummus in a variety of flavors (think: roasted red pepper and jalapeno) from different store-bought brands, or experiment with making your own!

Jerky

Want something extra savory for snack time? Jerky is your best bet. Choose from beef, turkey, and even bacon jerky for a sweet, spicy, or salty snack that you can dig into any time you're feeling peckish. There are so many types to try that you'll be testing out different flavors for months—without worrying about your sugar intake.

Avocado

Yes, homemade guac can be a low-sugar treat! Avocado is known as a superfood for a reason. It's sugar-free, full of protein, and comes packed with heart-healthy fats that you can pair with just about anything. Sprinkle some everything bagel seasoning on an avocado to bring out its rich creaminess, or spread avocado across a piece of low-carb toast for a mid-morning break. Whatever you choose, you'll be left feeling nice and full after a hearty avocado snack.

Sugar-Free Gelatin

Craving something sweet, but don't want to consume any sugar? Find your favorite flavor of sugar-free gelatin and keep a few boxes or premade cups on hand. While snacking on refreshing, fruit-flavored gelatin, pair it with sugar-free whipped topping for a fun and satisfying snack with no sugar to fret over from beginning to end. It makes a great dessert, too!