Healthy Snacking Benefits
Healthy snacking improves overall health, curbs cravings, fights weight gain, regulates mood, boosts brain power and gives you the energy you need to keep going all day.
Healthy snacks are more like slow-burning fuel that helps you keep going all day. Having several snacks a day helps banish that postmeal sleepiness that comes from consuming too many calories at one sitting. If you include protein in your snack, you'll derive an extra mental boost — protein-laden food like fish, meat, eggs, cheese, and tofu contain an amino acid that increases the production of neurotransmitters that regulate concentration and alertness.
Many of us naturally reach for carbohydrates when we're feeling down because they help lift our mood by boosting the brain chemical serotonin. While processed foods like plain bagels and cookies give a quick high, it's followed by a sharp low. Good-for-you fruit sugars, honey, low-fat dairy products, whole grains, and many vegetables lift mood and battle fatigue without the roller-coaster effect.
Choosing Snacks Wisely
Snacks should provide your child with important nutrients, such as calcium, fiber, iron and vitamins. They should not be high in calories, fat or sugar. Preslice vegetables and fruits and pack them ahead of time for your child to take to school. Opt for whole-grain bread, crackers and popcorn or low-fat dairy products. Make a homemade trail mix with nuts for a lean protein source. Ensure your child’s snacks are tasty, colorful and varied so that he gets healthy nutrients to get him through his day.
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