A healthy diet plan and exercise routine can be key when trying to lose a few pounds. Before embarking on a diet, some Britons may worry they will be left feeling unsatisfied and hungry. However, reaching for the snack drawer does not need to get in the way of their results, a nutritionist explained. These are the top snacks to eat to lose weight and burn fat.

When picking something to snack on, not all treats are created equal and slimmers should try and avoid those high in sugar, nutritionist for USN, Shona Wilkinson said.

She told Express.co.uk: Sugar gives us empty calories and contributes to weight gain.

Sugar makes our food taste great, gives us a quick boost of energy, and makes us feel good, but when consumed frequently it can have negative effects on our health and well-being.

Instead of tucking into a sweet treat, slimmers can pick from a list of healthy foods which will leave them feeling full and less likely to pile on the pounds.

Blueberries

Shona said: Good options can include blueberries, which are high in antioxidants - amongst the highest of all fruits - and low in sugar relative to other fruits.

Avocado

Avocados are rich in healthy fats, especially the monounsaturated fat oleic acid, which is associated with heart health, she explained.

Avocados also contain good levels of vitamin E, as well as carotenoids substances that can have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits in the body.

Oatcakes

Slimmers can enjoy these by topping with half an avocado or teaspoon of raw almond butter.

Shona explained: Oatcakes provide a slow release of energy; and almond butter contains healthy fats, protein, and good levels of minerals including calcium, magnesium and manganese, which are all necessary for strong bones.

Pumpkin seeds

Having a handful will help slimmers feel full as well as giving a good boost of protein.

Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc, which is necessary for the health of the immune system, healthy fertility, our sense of taste and smell, bone strength and many other aspects of health, Shona told Express.co.uk.

They also contain good levels of vitamin E, which has a role in healthy skin, fertility and as an antioxidant, amongst others. Pumpkin seeds are also a good source of protein.

Protein bar

She said: Choose your protein bar carefully. You dont want one that is low protein and high sugar!

Opt for one that is low sugar and high protein, preferably with a high fibre content and no palm oil.

Combining dieting with an exercise plan will speed up results and some will burn more calories than others.

Exercises including squash, running, martial arts and rugby can burn nearly 1000 calories in an hour, according to research.

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Weight loss diet: Eating these common foods can help burn fat fast - what are they? - Express