Here’s the best Costco snack for weight loss, according to a dietitian

Costco
An expert picks her favorite healthy snack for fueling up during a hungry-making Costco run.

Costco runs can deliver quite the workout — anyone spending time at the business end of one of those oversized shopping carts full of bulk-buy peanut butter and kitty litter knows.

And while working up an in-store appetite might have most of us hunting down free samples on our way to the food court, one voice is confidently advocating for a smarter snacking strategy when visiting the beloved big box retailer — one that will even help you lose weight.

So, whether you’re curbing cravings on the fly, or looking to stock your pantry with nicer-for-you nosh than Girl Scouts Thin Mint Pretzels and Heavenly Hunks oatmeal bites to aid you on your pounds-shedding, here’s what Amy Goodson, a registered dietitian and certified specialist in sports dietetics, recommended in an article for Eat This, Not That!.

A Costco run can make you hungry — a challenge to dieters trying to do better than a food court hot dog. David Tucker\News-Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK
A Costco run can make you hungry — a challenge to dieters trying to do better than a food court hot dog. David Tucker\News-Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK

And, so — what’s the best, number one of all time, Costco snack for weight loss?

Brimming with protein and fiber, very light on the calories, and perfect for a diet, Goodson recommends not one, but two tasty treats.

“My Costco pick is Fairlife Nutrition Shake + Veggies Made Great Keto Friendly Cinnamon Roll Muffin,” Goodson told the outlet.

“This snack comes in at 240 calories, 35 grams of protein, and 5 grams of fiber! It can be beneficial for weight loss due to several reasons,” she said.

Leave the hot dogs and try this fiber and protein rich shake for a treat that’ll aid your weight loss efforts. Alamy Stock Photo
Leave the hot dogs and try this fiber and protein rich shake for a treat that’ll aid your weight loss efforts. Alamy Stock Photo

Here’s why:

Goodson says this twin threat will fill you up and leave you feeling full for a long time, thanks to all that protein and fiber.

“When you consume a snack high in these nutrients, you’re likely to feel satisfied and less inclined to overeat later on. This can help you control your overall calorie intake throughout the day, ultimately aiding weight loss,” she said.

Packed with fiber and vegetables, fool yourself into thinking you’re cheating with these healthy muffins. Alamy Stock Photo
Packed with fiber and vegetables, fool yourself into thinking you’re cheating with these healthy muffins. Alamy Stock Photo

The other thing that protein and fiber can do? Keep your blood sugar in check.

“Fiber slows down the absorption of sugars, preventing rapid spikes and crashes in blood glucose levels,” Goodson said.

“This helps maintain energy levels and reduces cravings for unhealthy, high-calorie snacks between meals, which can contribute to weight loss by promoting better food choices,” she continued.

The wonder snack also helps preserve muscle, too — one problem with weight loss is the potential for muscle loss.

“Consuming adequate protein helps preserve lean muscle mass, which is important for maintaining a healthy metabolism and preventing weight regain in the long term,” Goodson said.