When it comes to snacking, biscuits are a popular choice among people of all ages. However, many biscuits are packed with sugar and unhealthy ingredients that can harm your health. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of delicious and nutritious biscuits available in the UK. In this article, we will share some of the best healthy biscuits in the UK that you can enjoy guilt-free.
From low-calorie options to gluten-free and vegan biscuits, there is a wide range of healthy biscuits available in the UK. Some of the most popular brands include McVitie’s, Fox’s, and Oreo. These biscuits come in a variety of flavours and textures, so you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with your tea or a snack to keep you going throughout the day, there is a healthy biscuit for every occasion.
What Makes a Biscuit Healthy
When it comes to biscuits, the word “healthy” might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, there are ways to make biscuits healthier without sacrificing taste. Here are some factors that can make a biscuit healthier:
Low in Sugar
Many biscuits are high in sugar, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems. Choosing low sugar biscuits can help reduce the risk of these issues. Look for biscuits that have less than 5g of sugar per serving.
Low in Saturated Fat
Saturated fat is another ingredient to watch out for when it comes to biscuits. Too much saturated fat can increase cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease. Look for biscuits that have less than 3g of saturated fat per serving.
High in Fibre
Fibre is an important nutrient that can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Look for biscuits that are high in fibre, such as those made with whole grains or oats.
Portion Control
Even if a biscuit is relatively healthy, eating too many can still be a problem. Practising portion control and limiting the amount of biscuits you eat in one sitting is important.
By considering these factors, you can make healthier choices when it comes to biscuits. Keep in mind that moderation is key, and even the healthiest biscuit should be enjoyed as a treat rather than a regular snack.
Top Healthy Biscuit Brands in the UK
When it comes to finding healthy biscuits in the UK, a few brands stand out from the rest. These brands offer a range of delicious and nutritious biscuits that can satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your health goals.
One of the top healthy biscuit brands in the UK is Rhythm 108. Their biscuits are vegan, gluten-free, and made from organic ingredients. The lemon, ginger, and chia flavour is a popular choice among health-conscious consumers.
Another great brand to consider is McVitie’s Digestive Thins. These biscuits are a lighter version of the classic digestive biscuit, with only 31 calories per biscuit. They are also a good source of fibre and contain no artificial colours or flavours.
For those who prefer a chocolatey treat, Oreo Thins are a good option. These biscuits are thinner than the original Oreos and have fewer calories, making them healthier. They are also vegan-friendly and free from artificial colours and flavours.
If you’re looking for a low-sugar option, Tesco Malted Milk Biscuits are great. These biscuits contain only 1.7g of sugar per biscuit and are a good source of calcium. They are also suitable for vegetarians.
Lastly, Fox’s Party Rings are a fun and colourful option that are surprisingly low in calories. Each biscuit contains only 25 calories and is free from artificial colours and flavours.
These top healthy biscuit brands in the UK offer a range of options for those who want to enjoy a sweet treat without compromising their health goals.
Ingredients to Look For
When searching for healthy biscuits in the UK, there are several key ingredients to look for on the packaging.
Firstly, whole grains are a great option as they provide more fibre and nutrients than refined grains. Look for biscuits that are made with whole wheat flour or oats.
Secondly, natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar are preferable to refined sugar as they are less processed and have a lower glycemic index.
Thirdly, healthy fats like nuts, seeds, and coconut oil can provide a source of beneficial nutrients and help to keep you feeling full.
Lastly, consider the overall calorie and sugar content of the biscuits. While healthier ingredients are important, it’s still important to consume them in moderation.
Some examples of biscuits that meet these criteria include the Rhythm108 Double Choco-Hazelnut biscuits, which are vegan, dairy-free, and made with organic ingredients. Another option is the McVitie’s Digestive Thins, which are made with whole wheat flour and have a lower calorie count than traditional digestives.
By checking the ingredients list and nutritional information, it’s possible to find healthier biscuit options that still satisfy your sweet tooth.
Where to Buy Healthy Biscuits in the UK
Finding healthy biscuits in the UK can be a challenge, but it is possible. Here are some places to look for healthier options:
Supermarkets
Most supermarkets in the UK carry at least a few varieties of healthy biscuits. Look for brands such as McVitie’s Digestive Thins, Tesco Malted Milk Biscuits, and Fox’s Party Rings. These biscuits are often lower in calories, fat, and sugar than their traditional counterparts.
Health Food Stores
Health food stores are a great place to find healthy biscuits in the UK. Look for brands such as Nairn’s, which makes a variety of oat-based biscuits that are high in fibre and lower in sugar. Other brands to look for include Rude Health and Doves Farm.
Online Retailers
Online retailers such as Amazon and Holland & Barrett offer a wide variety of healthy biscuits that can be delivered right to your door. Look for brands such as Belvita, which makes breakfast biscuits that are high in fibre and low in sugar. Other brands to consider include The Foods of Athenry and Nakd.
When shopping for healthy biscuits in the UK, be sure to read the labels carefully. Look for biscuits that are low in calories, fat, and sugar, and high in fibre. Avoid biscuits that are high in saturated fat, trans fats, and artificial ingredients. By making smart choices, you can enjoy biscuits as part of a healthy diet.
Making Your Own Healthy Biscuits
Making your own healthy biscuits can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only do you get to control the ingredients, but you can also tailor the recipe to your own taste preferences. Here are a few tips for making your own healthy biscuits:
- Use whole grain flour: Whole grain flour is higher in fiber and nutrients than refined flour. It can also give your biscuits a nuttier, heartier flavor.
- Add healthy fats: Instead of using butter or margarine, try using healthier fats like coconut oil or olive oil. These fats are high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels.
- Sweeten with natural sweeteners: Instead of using refined sugar, try sweetening your biscuits with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. These sweeteners are lower in calories and have a lower glycemic index than refined sugar.
- Add healthy mix-ins: Adding healthy mix-ins like nuts, seeds, and dried fruit can give your biscuits an extra boost of nutrition. Try adding chia seeds, flaxseeds, or dried cranberries to your recipe.
Here is a simple recipe for healthy biscuits that you can try:
Whole Grain Oatmeal Biscuits
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup almond milk
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, coconut oil, and almond milk.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
Making your own healthy biscuits can be a fun and delicious way to incorporate more whole grains, healthy fats, and natural sweeteners into your diet. Give it a try and see how easy it can be to make your own healthy treats!
Healthy Biscuit Alternatives
For those who are looking for healthier options to satisfy their biscuit cravings, there are plenty of alternatives to choose from. Here are some examples:
- Rice cakes: These are a low-calorie and low-fat alternative to biscuits. They can be enjoyed plain or with toppings such as peanut butter, hummus, or avocado.
- Fruit: Fresh or dried fruits are a great option for those who want a sweet snack without the added sugars and fats of biscuits.
- Yogurt: Low-fat or fat-free yogurt can be a satisfying snack that is high in protein and calcium. Add some fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey for extra flavour.
- Oatcakes: Oatcakes are a healthier alternative to biscuits as they are high in fibre and low in sugar. They can be enjoyed plain or with toppings such as cheese or hummus.
- Dark chocolate: For those who can’t resist chocolate, dark chocolate with a high cocoa percentage (70% or more) is a healthier option. It contains antioxidants and less sugar than milk chocolate.
It’s important to note that even healthy alternatives should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Benefits of Eating Healthy Biscuits
Eating healthy biscuits can provide a number of benefits to those who want to maintain a balanced diet. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider swapping your regular biscuits for healthier options:
Lower Calories
Many healthy biscuits are lower in calories than their traditional counterparts. This means you can enjoy a tasty snack without worrying too much about its impact on your waistline. For example, some of the best healthy biscuits in the UK include those made by brands like Nairn’s and Belvita, which offer a range of low-calorie options.
More Nutrients
Healthy biscuits often contain more nutrients than regular biscuits, which can help to support your overall health and wellbeing. For example, some biscuits are made with whole grains, a good fibre source, while others are fortified with vitamins and minerals.
Reduced Sugar
Many traditional biscuits are high in sugar, which can contribute to a range of health problems, including weight gain, tooth decay, and diabetes. By choosing healthier biscuits, you can reduce your sugar intake and enjoy a snack that is better for your health.
Satisfying Snack
Healthy biscuits can be a satisfying snack that can help to keep you feeling full between meals. For example, some biscuits are made with oats, which are a slow-release carbohydrate that can help to provide sustained energy throughout the day.
There are many benefits to eating healthy biscuits. By choosing options that are lower in calories, higher in nutrients, and lower in sugar, you can enjoy a tasty and good snack for your health.
Potential Drawbacks of Healthy Biscuits
While healthy biscuits can be a great option for those who want to indulge in a sweet treat without compromising their health goals, there are some potential drawbacks to keep in mind.
One of the main issues with healthy biscuits is that they can still contain a significant amount of sugar and calories. Even though they may be marketed as “low-fat” or “low-sugar,” it’s important to check the nutritional information to ensure that they are actually a healthier option.
Another potential drawback is that healthy biscuits may not be as satisfying or tasty as their less healthy counterparts. Some people may find that they need to eat more of them to feel satisfied, which can lead to overconsumption and negate any potential health benefits.
It’s also worth noting that healthy biscuits can be more expensive than regular biscuits, which may be a barrier for some people who are on a tight budget.
While healthy biscuits can be a good option for those who want to make healthier choices, it’s important to be mindful of their potential drawbacks and ensure they fit into a balanced and varied diet.
Conclusion
There are several healthy biscuits available in the UK that offer a tasty treat without compromising on nutrition. From Nairn’s Blueberry & Raspberry Chunky Oat Biscuit Breaks to McVitie’s Ginger Nuts, there is a wide range of options to choose from.
It’s important to note that even though these biscuits are considered healthy, they should still be consumed in moderation as they do contain sugar and calories. However, these biscuits can be a great alternative to traditional sugary snacks and can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
When choosing healthy biscuits, it’s essential to check the nutritional information and ingredient list. Look for biscuits that are low in sugar, saturated fat, and calories. It’s also a good idea to opt for biscuits that contain whole grains and natural ingredients.
There are plenty of healthy biscuit options available in the UK, and with a bit of research, it’s easy to find a tasty and nutritious treat that fits your dietary needs.
