People talk about snacking as being generally bad for you
and can make you gain weight, what you hear sometimes is not completely true.
Snacking is not as bad as few believe it to be but at the same time it also
depends on the type of foods you snack on
When you do not snack…
When you do not snack…
Some people are satisfied to eat one to two meals a day and
still maintain their weight. But they will realize with time that their
metabolism is slowing down and they’re accumulating more fat than in previous
years. The reason is that they are burning fewer calories. Also when someone
eats fewer meals when they get hungry, they tend to eat more and this can cause
weight gain.
Why snacking can be good for you…
Why snacking can be good for you…
Healthy snacking for example 2 hours before your main meal
prevents you from overeating on main meals as it also stops you from getting
too hungry.
What do experts recommend?
What do experts recommend?
Eating frequent smaller healthy meals or snacks will boost
your metabolism and make you burn more calories and will help you lose weight
or maintain your healthy weight.
Avoid unhealthy snack…
Avoid unhealthy snack…
High-fat, high-sugar snacks have low nutritional value and
loads of calories which will make you gain weight. Sometimes they may replace
your main meal as they make you feel full which is not recommended in a balance
diet. Avoid eating foods such as chips, cakes, sweetened juices, carbonated
beverages, and regular ice creams as regular snacks, instead keep them as
treats to consume from time to time.
Keep healthy snacks handy!
Keep healthy snacks handy!
When you are hungry, eat a healthy snack that you already
planned and prepared for. Keep healthy snacks readily available in your fridge;
store washed and chopped vegetables and fruits, light fruit-flavoured yogurts,
and low-fat portioned cheese…
And other snack ideas:
And other snack ideas:
o A sandwich made with brown bread and low-fat cheese, or low
fat labneh
o Fresh fruit salad or platter
o Low-fat or fat-free yogurt with fruits
o Low-fat or fat-free milk with whole-wheat cereals
o Sorbet or low-fat, low sugar ice cream
o Fat-free popcorn or baked chips
o Fat-free puddings or jello
o A handful of almonds or walnuts
o Dried fruits such as dates and apricots (3-4 pieces each)
o Instant soup (low in calories and fat)
Small amount of chocolate wafers