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Snacking: Not Always Bad for Your Health
The Pros
Snacking has acquired a bad name. However, this may not be
warranted. It is not only easier at times to snack than to eat a large
prepared meal, but it may also be healthier. Snacking will not by
itself help a person maintain a healthy weight, but it does provide a
person with energy throughout the day. It can also be a good way
to get a well balanced diet. Snacks also keep people from making
the bad food choices they often make when really hungry. Waiting
to eat a big meal can lead to overeating and sluggishness. The
key, of course, is to make snacks healthy ones.
Tips for Healthy Snacking
It is a good idea is to prepare snacks ahead of time. People often
snack on unhealthy foods because they are so readily available
and don't require the preparation of a full meal or even a healthy
snack. Preparing snacks ahead of time helps a person avoid junk
food and eat snacks that will complement each other across the
day. At least a few snacks everyday should be made up fruits and
vegetables. This may be an apple, a carrot, or any other fresh fruit
or vegetable. Pre-wash them and keep them in a transparent
container so they aren't forgotten. A person can also snack on low
fat items such as pretzels or popcorn, yogurt, or low fat granola.
If a person is eating simply because they are bored, they should try
drinking a glass of water instead, or a glass of juice. Also, many
people feel hungry or unsatisfied when really they are just
dehydrated. Try getting out of the house, taking a walk, and
planning a dinner that is fun not only to eat but also to prepare. And
for those people who are just plain old burned out on cooking, let
someone else do the cooking a couple times a week.
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