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Why Is Snacking Important
ShareWhy Is Snacking Important
Snacking is an important and valuable way in which to fit extra nutrients into your diet. Snacking also help to prevent overeating at mealtimes. According to research, snacking provides much of the day’s food intake. Therefore, choosing healthy options is crucial.
Prevents Overeating
Snacking can help keep you from getting excessively hungry in between meals and then as a consequence, you may overeat at your next meal. This is because your blood sugar levels would have dropped so much by the time your next meal is due, you will want to rapidly raise them. So next time you start to feel hungry a couple hours before lunch or dinner, don't try to wait until the meal, eat a small healthy snack to tide you over to your next meal. Combine a carbohydrate-rich with a protein and a healthy snack. This could be a wholegrain rice cake and peanut butter topped with slices of apple.Keeps Blood Sugar Levels Steady
Healthy snacking helps keep your blood sugar levels balanced. Especially if you follow the helthy fat, protein and carbohydrate combination at each meal or snack. This is especially beneficial for diabetics. However, is also helpful for people without diabetes, This is because large spikes and dips in blood sugar levels can trigger insulin resistance, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, heart disease and high blood pressure and make it more likely over time.Provides Nutrients
If you choose wholesome and nutritious snacks, snacking can help you meet your nutritional needs for the day. It is ok to have a less healthy snack every now and then, however it is important not to make a habit of this. It is important that most of your snacks consist of nutrient dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, nuts or seeds.Considerations
Remember not to snack just before a meal, and to only eat a snack if you are really hungry. Snacking out of boredom or for other emotional reasons isn't healthy and can lead to unhealthy overeating and weight gain.
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