Not only in Indonesia, but globally, the habit of snacking has also increased. Based on the numbers, snacking frequency can reach 3 times a day, while main meals are only 2.5 times a day.
However, snacking habits are often associated with the increasing number of obesity sufferers. This may happen because many people enjoy their snacks due to supportive environments, such as having snacks while watching TV or as a companion when gathering with friends.
In fact, if people knew the real benefits of snacking, issues like triggering an increase in obesity could be avoided. Therefore, so that you don’t hesitate to provide snacks for your beloved family, we will show five benefits of snacking and tips to ensure that the snacks enjoyed remain healthy and beneficial for the body!
Benefits of Snacking for the Body
- Provides additional energy between main meals.
Sometimes, the time gap between main meals is too long, causing the body to lack energy. Snacking on healthy foods can help provide additional energy to maintain focus and productivity.
- Improves concentration and focus, especially when feeling hungry.
When hungry, blood sugar levels in the body can drop, which can cause a decrease in concentration and focus. Eating snacks rich in protein and complex carbohydrates can help increase blood sugar levels and improve concentration.
- Complements additional nutritional needs.
Not everyone can meet their daily nutritional needs with just three main meals. Snacking can help fulfill nutritional deficiencies, such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Controls appetite.
Snacking on healthy foods before main meals can help reduce excessive hunger, making the portion of the main meal more controlled. This can help prevent overeating and maintain an ideal body weight.
- Improves mood.
Some types of snacks, such as dark chocolate, can help increase the production of serotonin, which can help improve mood and reduce stress.
Read More: Nutritious Snack Recommendations for Your Beloved Family
Tips for Choosing Healthy Snacks
One of the triggers of obesity due to snacking is because the snacks that enter our body contain excess calories and are low in nutrients. Therefore, when eating or serving snacks, we need to pay attention to their contents.
Here are tips you can follow to choose healthy snacks:
- Choose snacks that are low in sugar and salt. Excess sugar and salt can increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
- Pay attention to nutritional content. Choose snacks that are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Avoid snacks that are only high in calories and low in nutrients.
- Choose snacks that are low in saturated and trans fats. Saturated and trans fats can increase bad cholesterol levels in the blood.
- Choose snacks that contain natural ingredients. Avoid snacks that contain processed ingredients and preservatives.
- Pay attention to portion sizes. Even if healthy, excessive snacking can still cause weight gain. Pay attention to snack portion sizes and avoid eating excessive snacks.
Read More: Delicious Homemade Cheese Snacks to Try!
Healthy Snack Recommendations
Choosing low-calorie and nutrient-rich snacks can be a challenge in itself. However, you don’t need to worry because we will provide a list of healthy snack recommendations that are suitable for serving to your beloved family.
1. Low-Fat Dairy Products
Dairy products such as cheese and yogurt can be very reliable as healthy snacks. The nutrients contained are no joke. Low-fat dairy products are rich in protein, calcium, and vitamin D, which are good for bone and dental health.
2. Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are important for body health. Choose fresh fruits and vegetables and wash them thoroughly before consumption.
3. Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are also a good source of unsaturated fats that are good for heart health.
These three healthy snack ingredients can be combined, such as:
- Cheesy Tomato Bites. Combine cherry tomatoes with The Laughing Cow Cheese Spread. Cut the tomatoes in half, then spread TLC Cheese Spread on top. Finally, sprinkle a little parsley.
- Fruit and Cheese Parfait. Fill a glass with yogurt, fresh fruit pieces, and Kiri Cream Cheese. Repeat the layers and sprinkle with a little low-sugar granola.
- Frozen Yogurt Cheese Bites. Mix Greek yogurt with mashed The Laughing Cow Cheese Belcube. Add natural sweetener to taste. Pour into small ice molds and freeze.
You can also check out other fun recipes here! From snack recipes for the family to recipes for main dishes.
Read More: Low-Fat Cheeses That Helps With Your Diet
By following the tips above, you can enjoy or serve snacks healthily and get their benefits for the body. Remember that the main key to healthy snacking is choosing the right snacks and paying attention to portion sizes.
