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Pros & Cons of Snack Foods

Snack foods are a part of all our diets. Eating three meals a day is important for a healthy lifestyle, but incorporating snack foods into your diet may improve your energy levels and keep you full until your next meal. Conversely, if you snack too often on the wrong types of foods, it could be a problem for your health and waistline.

  1. Healthful Snacking

    • When you are trying to maintain a busy schedule, it is important to keep your energy levels up even between meals. You can do this by eat healthful snacks foods as needed. Whole grains such as wheat provide essential nutrients that energize the brain and body. These nutrients include fiber, iron and carbohydrates. Vitamins B1, B2 and B3 are also found in whole grains. B vitamins maintain energy levels and help the body to fight fatigue. These vitamins help to improve sleep patterns and stabilize blood glucose levels. Whole grains also are full of fiber that balance the brain's chemical serotonin, keeping you feeling awake and energetic. Fresh fruits and vegetables and foods that are low in fat and high in protein also make good snack options.

    Unhealthful Snacking

    • Eating unhealthful snacks on a regular basis can cause you to gain weight. Weight gain is caused by consuming more calories than you burn. Snack foods such as potato chips, cookies, cakes and soda all possess high levels of calories. Avoid eating fatty and high-calorie snacks that are devoid of nutrients.

      Refrain from watching television while you are eating, as doing so makes you more likely to gain weight. This is in part because in such a distracted state of mind, you are less likely to recognize when you have begun to overeat. Do not snack close to meal times, as snacking at the wrong time of day may make you feel full, leading you to skip the meal. This can lead to more snacking later, starting a vicious cycle in which very little of substance is being consumed.

    Conclusion

    • Eating healthful snacks throughout the day will help you maintain optimum energy levels and will provide your brain and body with a steady stream of nutrients. Snacking regularly also helps you maintain a healthful blood sugar level. Care must be taken when selecting appropriate foods, however, as unhealthful foods are very accessible and convenient.The convenience store, service station, and vending machine all offer fatty snacks that are quick fixes when you're short on time. Plan and prepare your healthful snacks ahead of time to avoid the pitfalls of junk food.

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