Snacking: Is It Good or Bad for You?

I’m a snacker. Always have been. People snack for numerous reasons. Many indulge out of habit. Others snack because of boredom, to fill a void, or perhaps other reasons. Some see certain foods and immediately want to eat. A few people, like me, seem to have an internal clock, such as a stomach growl, that cues us it’s time to find a snack.  However, don’t mistake snacking with food craving. Just thinking of foods can bring on cravings or hunger pangs. Most of us have experienced temptation when we smell popcorn or walk around a corner and catch the aroma of delicious pastries, doughnuts, or other temptations wafting toward us.

What Are Snacks?

 How do you define snacks? No universal definition or explanation seems to exist. People have different ideas. We may say, “I’m busy, so I’ll grab a snack for lunch.” Thus, they see a snack as a quick meal replacement. Others may consider them an indulgence ―ice cream, chips, or tasty treats not usually eaten at mealtime. To me, a snack is any food eaten between regular meals, either as a treat, a welcomed break, or a bit of food to abate hunger pangs between mealtimes.

Why We Snack

 A webinar promoted by the International Food Informational Council noted several findings from a survey on snacking beliefs and habits. See how you compare.

• Nine out of ten individuals called what they eat between meals a snack.
• Four out of ten stated they felt happy or contented when snacking.
• Many snacked on sweet, salty, and crunchy foods. Just keep in mind the American Dietary Guidelines advise limiting quantities of sugar and salt in the diet for better health.
• Half of snackers tend to disregard calorie goals when they snack. These added calories can’t be ignored and may wreck a figure, aggravate weight problems, or more importantly, worsen health issues.
• Two of three Americans claim their snacking is spontaneous. Many snackers in the survey sought fruit followed by protein and grain products.
• Forty percent say snacks satisfy their hunger between meals.

Are Snacks Healthy?

Nutritionists may vary on the pros and cons of snacking. However, a healthy food source can supplement daily nutritional needs. Those who perceive these food additions as preferable choices may choose yogurt, cheese, unseasoned popcorn, unsalted nuts, and varied types of fruit. My favorite morning snacks include nuts or fruit, while my preferred afternoon choice is chocolate milk. Most of the time I choose hot chocolate, or on warmer days, change to a refreshing shake of cold low-fat milk plus an added banana with the chocolate. Either way, these foods have added to my nutrient needs for the day.  

The bottom line is that we need not feel guilty about snacking. Choose wisely by considering the nutritional value and enjoy a healthy, pleasurable treat between meals.

Happy snacking!

September 10, 2024