You may have noticed that Valentine’s Day and Heart Health get all the attention in February. Many people have not heard that February is also National Snack Food Month. For 36 years, the National Snack Food Association’s goal has been to raise awareness about snacking and how to keep it as healthy as possible. Snacking may have a bad reputation, but snacking can be a part of a healthy eating plan. Healthy snacks can provide energy and nutrients, satisfy cravings, boost metabolism, and help maintain a healthy weight. The key word is “healthy.” Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health offers ideas to help keep your snacking healthy. The next time you feel the urge to snack ask yourself:
- When do I snack? What hours do you usually grab extra food?
- Why am I snacking? Is it due to boredom, stress, tiredness, or are you just hungry?
- What do I snack on? Pause and think about what will satisfy you. Do you want a crunchy apple or smooth yogurt, something salty or sweet?
- How much should I have? Snacks should be enough to satisfy but not so much that they interfere with your next meal. A general rule of thumb is to keep your snacks around 150-250 calories per snack.
Preparing ahead will make it easier to indulge in healthier snacks. Some healthy snacks representing all five food groups include fresh whole fruits, cut vegetables, whole grain crackers, yogurt or cottage cheese, hardboiled eggs, and varied nuts. These will provide the vitamins, protein, minerals, carbohydrates, fiber, and healthy fats our bodies need.
Interesting Fact!
Evidence dating to 50,000 BC shows that ancient civilizations created a “trail mix” comprised of wild date seeds, pine nuts, walnuts, acorns, and chestnuts. These nomadic people most likely relied on this mixture for sustenance during long journeys.
