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Our Quiz on Healthy Snacking Is Guaranteed to Satisfy

Review our list of surprisingly good-for-you nibbles, then test your knowledge


different snack options in a vending machine
Jared Oriel

As we age, it’s important to make sure that the food we eat is good for us. That includes snacks. America’s obsession with ultra-processed, highly addictive snack foods has taken a toll on our collective health. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Check out our list of 25 healthy snacks, then take this quiz to see what you’ve absorbed.​

This quiz was created with the assistance of generative AI. It has been reviewed by editors before publication.

Question 1 of 10

Alison Kane, a registered dietitian and wellness program manager at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, likes to call healthy snacking “intentional” snacking. What is one benefit of intentional snacking as we age?

Intentional snacking is an opportunity to add nutrient-dense foods, which are especially important as we age, to our diet. Smart snacking, rather than mindless munching, helps us meet our nutritional needs between meals.

Question 2 of 10

What health risks are associated with regularly consuming processed snacks like cookies and chips?

A 2023 study found that regularly eating processed snacks was linked to dangerous visceral fat around the organs, a higher body mass index (BMI) and elevated triglycerides, all of which increase the risk of heart disease.

Question 3 of 10

Which nut is a complete plant-based protein containing all nine essential amino acids?

Pistachios contain all nine essential amino acids — a rare quality among plant foods. They also provide 6 grams of protein per ounce.

Question 4 of 10

What is a major benefit of whipping cottage cheese in a blender?

Not everyone is a fan of the curds in cottage cheese. Blending it creates a creamy, smooth texture, making it more enjoyable and versatile whether as a dip or a dessert base.

Question 5 of 10

Which of the following is true about edamame?

Edamame, another name for tender young soy beans, can help lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and boost bone density in postmenopausal women.

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Question 6 of 10

Which nutrient in eggs supports brain health and may reduce Alzheimer’s risk?

Eggs are a top source of choline, a nutrient that plays a key role in brain function. A 2024 study linked frequent egg consumption with a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease in older adults.

Question 7 of 10

What is one benefit of pairing dried fruit with nuts or cheese?

Because dried fruit is calorie-dense and high in sugar, pairing it with nuts or cheese balances the macronutrients, improving satiety and nutrition by adding protein and healthy fats.

Question 8 of 10

Why is air-popped popcorn recommended over store-bought microwave versions?

Many store-bought popcorn options contain added fats, sodium and artificial ingredients, whereas air-popping at home gives you a healthier, whole-grain snack that’s high in fiber and less than 100 calories per 3 cups.

Question 9 of 10

What makes chia seeds a particularly powerful ingredient for heart health?

Chia seeds are loaded with plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, which have strong anti-inflammatory effects and are linked to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, making them excellent for heart and brain health.

Question 10 of 10

Why are frozen red grapes a smart snack choice?

Frozen red grapes are sweet and refreshing, and they also take longer to chew, which helps slow consumption, leading to better portion control and satisfaction. They also contain more antioxidants than green grapes and can support heart and brain health.

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