Nutrition Advent Calendar – Day 12
Healthy Snacking – What, When, Why?
Snacking can be a lot of people’s downfall and the difference between a successful and unsuccessful diet. Snacking is a great opportunity between meals to fuel the body with protein rich and nutrient dense foods. Used correctly, they can fuel training, aid recovery and keep you on track with your goals. Abuse the privilege of a snack by over-eating calories and choosing poor options, can lead to excess weight gain.
Focus on foods that:
Promote satiety Promote recovery Fuel training Are nutrient dense
Are not energy dense Are not highly processed
Foods to prioritise should be: High in protein Source of slow releasing (low-GI) carbohydrates Whole, natural foods Liquid calories High in fat Heavily refined/processed
Take home messages:
Prioritise naturally sourced, whole foods that are nutrient dense and are filling. Avoid poor quality foods that are high in processed sugars, salts and saturated fats, and don’t drink your calories as this is less satiating that eating actual food.
Choose a suitable snack that best supports your energy requirements!! Are you training?