According to the USDA, 24% of our daily caloric intake is from snacking…{Whoa!}…seems like we should be incredibly conscious of what these mini meals consist of, right? I am definitely in favor of eating every 2-3 hours, we just need to choose wisely.
First of all, ALWAYS have an emergency snack on hand, in your purse, desk, car, etc. I never leave the house without grabbing a bar like Premier Protein, just in case I’m stuck in traffic or tempted by my daughter’s bag of goldfish (these are my kryptonite). Something as simple as snacking on a bar can drastically affect my mood in a crazed low blood sugar moment, and even the rest of the day. If the hungry monster hits and I don’t replenish in time, I swear I feel cruddy for hours.
Okay, so yes I’m all for snacks, but no, Ranch Doritos and a can of Pepsi DO NOT count as ‘wise snacking.’ Here are 3 reasons you should put some {healthy} thought into what you’re eating:
- Energy Boost. “A healthy snack made up of complex carbohydrates, protein and healthy fats increases your energy levels for a longer period of time than sugary snacks do. This is because sugar will cause your blood sugar to spike and then crash, leaving you hungry and lethargic. Complex carbohydrates are a stable source of energy, and including them in a healthy snack helps you power through your tasks between meals.” (Livestrong)
- Prevent Overeating. If you maintain a schedule of eating every 2-3 hours, you will keep your hunger at bay, and avoid the starving, have to consume an entire large pizza by myself feeling that might have otherwise happened (we’ve all been there.) A gluten free snack doesn’t only fill your tummy but it’s also healthy for your body.
- Nutrients. It can be hard to squeeze in all of the necessary protein, vitamins and minerals in your 3 square meals so it’s important to make them a priority in your snacking. Nutrient-rich foods boost your immune system, and provide greater bone, heart and brain health. Healthy body = Happy life.
So obviously you should be eating as many green veggies and juicy berries you can get your hands on, but sometimes a {healthy} convenient snack can give you just the fuel you need. Like I said before, I like to have a bar on hand, but I also like to incorporate other products like Premier Protein Shakes to amp up my protein intake, especially after a workout.
I’m also a big believer in getting your daily dose of Fiber and here’s why: “It fills your stomach, stimulating receptors that tell your brain that it’s time to stop eating.” (WebMD) Which can turn into weight loss. I’m good with that!
So what have we learned here? Eat every 2-3 hours, but make it count…choose wisely…choose healthy. Oh and add some fiber!
What is your go-to snack of choice? Tell me your faves :)
Disclosure: Premier Protein graciously provided me with product to try and review. The opinions expressed here represent my own, which I take great pride in providing pure honesty…because I’m OBSESSED with sharing the Good!
XoXo Portia