Snacking can be either good or bad for you, depending on the type of foods you choose and why you snack. Snack to control hunger and you'll be helping your body. But snack out of boredom or anxiety and you're likely to gain weight as a result. Choosing the right snacks also makes a world of difference. Ideal snacks are low fat, low sugar and low calories. Don't snack on desserts or large portions unless your goal is to increase your weight.
Can Cause Weight Gain
Snacks that are too high in calories can cause weight gain, especially if you add them to your diet without reducing the size of your regular meals. According to a 2010 article in ABC News, late-night snacks are especially damaging because they're often eaten in response to stress, fatigue or emotions, rather than hunger. As a result, you're adding calories to your day that your body doesn't really need, resulting in weight gain over the long run. According to Fitness Magazine, healthy, low-calorie snacks include hummus and whole wheat pita wedges, fruits and peanut butter, yogurt or low-fat mozzarella sticks, oatmeal or nuts.
Can Help Control Hunger and Cravings
Eating a couple of small snacks throughout the day can help you control hunger. If you wait long hours between lunch and dinner, for example, by the time dinner comes around, you might be famished. This makes it easier to overindulge and eat more than you normally would. According to "Good Housekeeping," snacking throughout the day also helps stabilize your blood sugar, which in turn controls cravings.
Can Maintain Your Energy Up
Low blood sugar can cause low energy, light-headedness and lack of endurance and stamina, both physically and mentality. If you're trying to workout regularly, maintaining your levels of energy up is crucial to being able to maintain intensity and pace. Have a pre-workout snack to help you maintain your energy throughout the exercise routine. The ideal option for this is a mix of carbs and proteins, such as a slice of whole-wheat toast with a slice of low-fat cheese or some peanut butter.
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