Yon-Ka Paris

If it’s clear skin you’re after, it’s safe to say you’ll want to lay off the sugary treats. Unfortunately, as much as we love cookies and brownies, they aren’t the best of friends with our skin. (Unless you make a healthy, sugar-free version, that is!)

But anything with refined sugar runs the risk of plaguing your skin with unwanted blemishes. The reason for this is that simple carbohydrates, like refined sugar, can cause the insulin levels in your body to spike. When your insulin levels spike, it can trigger inflammation, which can lead to breakouts.

That’s why it’s so important to skip sugar if you’re trying to take care of your skin. However, that’s often easier said than done. To help you avoid the excess sugar, but still satisfy those cravings, try these no-sugar snacks to keep your skin clear.

1. Homemade Granola Bars

You’re probably wondering why you’d bother making homemade granola bars when you can just pick some up at the grocery store. Well, the truth is, some granola bars are loaded with sugar and other questionable ingredients. To make sure you’re getting a treat that’s really good for you, it’s better to make them yourself. This way, you’ll be in full control of the ingredients.

Try making these Soft & Chewy Baked Granola Bars and keep them on hand for a morning or afternoon snack. They’re made with rolled oats, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and cranberries. Plus, there’s some Medjool dates added to provide a little sweetness.

2. Banana Boats

Is there anything better than the combination of banana and nut butter? Probably not! The great thing about making banana boats is that they don’t take long to make and you can add any toppings you like.

All you have to do is slice a banana down the middle, drizzle your nut butter of choice on top, and you’re good to go. You can also add some extra treats like hemp seeds, berries, or some unsweetened coconut flakes, depending on what you’re craving.

3. Roasted Chickpeas

If you’re craving something savory, why not grab a handful of roasted chickpeas? These are incredibly easy to make. They just get baked in the oven with your desired seasonings. It’s simple, plus you’re able to customize them to your liking with the spices you add to them.

You can keep it simple with salt and pepper. Or you can choose to experiment with cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. Just follow these directions from The Kitchn to whip up a batch yourself.

4. PB&J Energy Bites

Instead of granola bars, you could also go for a delicious PB&J energy bite! These are in ball shape, so they’re easy to pack with you or grab when you’re on-the-go. Plus, they have a few good-for-you ingredients your body is going to love.

These are made from peanut butter, maple syrup, rolled oats, flaxseed meal, chia seeds, and dried fruit. You can also add some protein powder for an added boost. And if you’re allergic to peanut butter, you’re able to substitute it with almond, cashew, or sunflower butter.

Make these at the beginning of the week and you’ll have them to snack on every single day. When you’re prepared with snacks, that means, you’ll be less likely to give into unhealthy temptations throughout the week. And not giving into those sugary temptations means your skin can stay glowing.

5. Healthy Popsicles

When the warm weather rolls around, you’ll need something ice cold to cool yourself off after a day outside. The good news is, you don’t have to resort to ice cream that’s loaded with sugar. You can make homemade popsicles (that are actually good for you).

These Granola Yogurt Popsicles contain dairy-free yogurt, unsweetened coconut milk, agave, granola, kiwi or your choice of sliced fruit, and blueberries or whatever other fruit you choose.

It might seem intimidating to make your own popsicles, but with a popsicle mold, you can whip them up in no time at all! Of course, they will need time to harden in the freezer, so you’ll want to prep them ahead of time.

6. Strawberry Shortcake Mini Muffins

These Strawberry Shortcake Mini Muffins make for the perfect snack to have on hand throughout the week. They’re easy to make and one serving is three muffins.

Since there’s no added sugar in these, you don’t have to feel guilty about enjoying them. Nor do you have to worry about sugar-related breakouts. Plus, they’re gluten-free and can easily be made vegan if needed. And if you’re not into strawberries? No problem at all. Swap them out for blueberries instead!