Vegan Treats To Get You Through The Day

Sometimes you just can’t make it to lunch or dinner without needing a little something to munch on. Quick and easy snacks can also be healthy -- and with so many options available, there’s really no reason why you should go with a rumbly in your tumbly.

Well, that is unless you’re vegan, of course. 

In our meat-driven society with diets like keto on the rise, it’s no wonder why the vegan treat department is lacking. And while you might be tempted to call it quits on your vegan journey simply due to the fact that you can’t find any snacks or treats without animal by-products, we want you to take a deep breath, remember why you started your journey, and check out our awesome list of vegan options below. 

You just might find a tasty treat that becomes a life-long staple in your vegan diet!

 

But First, What Are Some of the Top Benefits of Following a Vegan Diet?

Every single year more and more people are making the decision to go vegan and for good reason! There are so many incredible ways that veganism can improve our lives -- amazing health benefits, less stress on the planet, more efficient ways to use our natural resources, and many more. 

There are a ton of unique reasons someone might choose to adopt a vegan lifestyle. When thinking about transitioning to veganism, it’s really important to think about your morals and the reasons why this lifestyle speaks to you. A big lifestyle change is much easier to sustain if you wholeheartedly believe in your decision. Think about the different standards you hold yourself accountable to and what guides you as you decide what's right and what's wrong. 

That being said, here are a few of the top health benefits you’ll find when you make the switch to a vegan diet:

Benefit #1: Happier Heart Health

Meat contains saturated fat, which can greatly contribute to heart issues when eaten in excess. So by cutting back on the red stuff and loading up on healthy plant-based foods, you’re doing your ticker a favor. 

Benefit #2: May Shield Cancer

The experts over at the World Health Organization say that 30 percent of all cancers are linked to dietary and other lifestyle choices -- and the number goes up to a shocking 70 percent when it comes to gastrointestinal cancers. 

According to a recent review, vegans had an unbelievable 15 percent lower risk of cancer compared to non-vegans. Doctors credit the diet’s immune-boosting properties, but more research is still needed. Regardless, anything that can possibly reduce cancer is a winner in our book! 

Benefit #3: Tames Inflammation

Inflammation has been linked to a whole range of health problems, including cancer, heart disease, and chronic inflammatory disease. 

Research has shown that a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and veggies, as well as whole wheat, helps reduce inflammation by strengthening the immune system. 

Plus, plant-based foods have plenty of flavonoids and carotenoids -- phytonutrients (natural plant chemicals) that help combat pesky free radicals, which can damage DNA and prompt an inflammatory response.

 

Tasty Vegan Treats To Get You Through The Day

Now that you’re totally convinced that veganism is the way to go after reading about those undeniably incredible health benefits, let’s dive into some of the tastiest vegan treats to help keep you full, happy, and energized throughout the day.  

 

Trail Mix

Trail mix is a great plant-based snack that typically includes seeds, nuts, and dried fruit. Some varieties also have coconut, chocolate, crackers, or whole grains. 

Depending on the ingredients you choose, trail mix can be a really good source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. 

To make sure you’re sticking to your vegan lifestyle, it’s best to make your own healthy mix rather than purchasing a pre-made bag of trail mix. 

Need help coming up with your own tasty recipe? Try this:

• 1 part raw walnuts

• 1 part raw cashews

• 1 part raw almonds

• 1 part raw pumpkin seeds

• ½ part vegan chocolate chunks (opt for dark chocolate for added health benefits!)

• 2 parts dried tart cherries (or any dried fruit that tickles your fancy)

Proper Wild Energy Shot

Need a quick pick-me-up but can’t stand all of the animal by-products in commercial energy drinks? 

Never fear -- Proper Wild is here to help. 

Our clean all-day energy shots are 100% plant-based, and have a short, simple list of healthy body-nourishing, focus-boosting ingredients. Sweetened with real fruit juices and absolutely ZERO grams of added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or animal by-products -- vegans rejoice! 

 

Fruit and Nut Butter

Fruit and nut butter -- made from blended nuts -- is a delicious vegan snack with many awesome nutritional benefits. 

Fruits provide a healthy source of vitamins and minerals, while many nut butters are rich in fiber and protein that can help you to feel full and energized. Popular combos include apples or bananas with almond, cashew, or peanut butter.

Roasted Chickpeas

Mmmm, roasted chickpeas! 

Also known as garbanzo beans, chickpeas are spherical and slightly yellow legumes. One cup provides over 14 grams of protein and 71 percent of the daily value for folate. They’re also really high in copper, manganese, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.  

Roasted chickpeas are a super simple, delicious vegan treat. You can make your own by simply tossing canned chickpeas in olive oil and seasonings, spreading them on a baking sheet, and roasting them at 450°F for about 40 minutes or until crunchy.

 

Applesauce

Applesauce is always a huge hit -- and the vegan sweet treat is a cinch to make in a pressure cooker. All you have to do is combine the ingredients like apples, cinnamon, a little lemon juice, and water, then set it and walk away. Yup, it's that easy! 

Make a big batch ahead of time and stash it in the fridge.

Applesauce is rich in fiber and contains polyphenols, which are both great for heart health.

Popcorn

Last on the list but certainly not least -- popcorn!

Popcorn is a type of corn kernel and when it's heated, pressure builds up, and the outer hull “pops.” The result is wonderfully crispy and crunchy popcorn. Many commercial brands of popcorn use butter, so it’s best to make it at home with oil instead. 

Other healthy vegan ingredients, like sea salt and nutritional yeast, can be used to add flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices, too. 

In addition to being high in fiber, popcorn also contains antioxidants which, as we know, are really good for us! Plus, popcorn is low in calories, so it’s a perfect treat for those watching their waistlines. 

Bottom Line

While many people are concerned about their options of tasty yet nutritional treats on a vegan diet, this list goes to show you just how many different snacks and ingredients can give you everything your body needs to function at its best.

From our Clean All-Day Energy Shots here at Proper Wild, to applesauce, trail mix, and popcorn, vegans have a ton of great options to get them through the day!