One of the big diet-breakers is the tendency to snack when we don’t actually need food. So why do we crave a snack when we’re…
…TIRED
The problem: A poor nights’ sleep alters our hormones, increasing those that trigger hunger and a desire for a quick ‘pick-me-up’ sugar rush.
The solution: Instead of reaching for croissants with jam, muffins and sugar-coated breakfast cereals, swap them for slow release options like granary toast with poached eggs, sugar-free muesli with fruit or even an extra-lean back bacon sandwich using wholemeal bread. They will help to give you a steady supply of energy, plus filling protein, which will give rather than deplete your energy stores still further.
…BORED
The problem: We use food as a way to distract ourselves, usually out of habit rather than need, reaching for things like biscuits, which, once you get started eating them you can find it hard to stop.
The solution: Plan ahead and have snacks like apples, berries, a fruit salad or a handful of nuts to chomp on instead.
…UPSET
The problem: The idea that ‘a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down’ is an old one and works on the premise that when something upsets us, something sweet will help to put it right. Many of us will remember being comforted with foods by our parents when upset. And it’s a response that extends into adulthood.
The solution: Forewarned is forearmed. Have foods at the ready that will give you comfort, but not ultimately make you feel worse. A small bar of dark chocolate could do the trick or if you’re a savoury person, a bag of baked crisps. Sweet fruits like pineapple, mango and papaya can also be good and can be eaten dried, canned or fresh for a quick, but healthy sugar hit.
Can food put a smile on your face? Check out our Lift Your Mood with Food feature to find out…
Also, read our guide to healthy snacking through out the day, Clever Snacking
Plus check out this healthy snack blog, with a great video on health snacks for kids
And here are 6 healthy snacks with 6 ingredients or less from Australian writer and TV presenter Sarah Wilson
