One of the most challenging parts of dieting is eliminating your favorite food items from your daily rotation.

It’s best to be prepared with healthy, nutritioussnacksto lose weight andgain muscle.

We spoke with the experts who reveal some of their top picks whensnacking for weight loss.

Greek yogurt, concept of snacks for weight loss and muscle gain

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There are a few things to keep in mind when selecting or preparing snacks.

One of them is making sure your snack offers satisfying protein.

This can help control overall calorie intake, contributing to weight loss."

cottage cheese with crackers

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When your goal is weight loss, you want to trim fat rather than lose muscle mass.

Your body needs protein to repair and preserve muscle.

Cottage Cheese With Whole-Grain Crackers

Cottage cheese is a true staple when it comes to snacks.

Carrots and Hummus

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Goodson recommends enjoying half a cup of low-fat cottage cheese with fresh cucumber slices and whole-grain crackers.

A half-cup serving is just90 caloriesand provides around 12 grams of protein.

You’re also getting an impressive dose of calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

canned tuna in bowl

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This snack is seamless to prepare.

Plus, more sleep can lower your calorie intake.

“Most plant foods contain very little leucine.

protein powder and glass of water

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Even Maia’s flavored yogurts contain only three grams of added sugar.

hard boiled eggs

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pumpkin seeds pepitas

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greek yogurt

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protein bars

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