Choosing whole-food snacks like edamame may improve gut health and support weight management. We are a nation of snackers: ...

At some point, you might have wondered if soybeans and edamame are the same thing. To answer this question, we have to dive into some food science.

Make edamame — fresh soybeans — a welcome addition to your healthy diet Consumed whole, fresh or dried, soybeans contain a bounty of vitamins, minerals and nutrients.

Substitutions: For edamame pasta, another legume-based pasta or any conventional or whole-grain dried pasta of your choice. For peas, use shelled edamame. For mint, use basil or parsley.

Tip: Snack on fresh edamame with a sprinkle of salt and a squeeze of lime, or enjoy shelf-stable dried edamame, which offers all the same benefits but can be easily taken on the go. 3.

Nuts are our No. 1 snack to support gut health with the combo of protein, fiber and healthy fats. Look for unsalted and no-sugar-added nuts with 6 g to 20 g of protein and 3 g of fiber per serving.

Key Points. Nuts are our No. 1 snack to support gut health with the combo of protein, fiber and healthy fats. Look for unsalted and no-sugar-added nuts with 6 g to 20 g of protein and 3 g of fiber ...