Snacking Sabotages Healthy Eating Habits for 25% of Individuals, Study Finds
A new study reveals that 1 in 4 people who eat healthy meals tend to undermine their efforts by consuming unhealthy snacks, such as ultraprocessed and sugary treats. The research emphasizes the importance of swapping unhealthy snacks for healthier options like fruit and nuts, as snacks account for nearly a quarter of our daily calorie intake. Snacking on highly processed foods and sugary treats can lead to increased hunger and negative health outcomes, including higher BMI, visceral fat mass, and triglyceride concentrations associated with metabolic diseases. The study also highlights the significance of snack timing, with late-night snacking linked to consuming calorie-dense foods high in fat and sugar. However, participants who frequently consumed high-quality snacks like nuts and fresh fruit were more likely to maintain a healthy weight. Experts recommend carrying convenient, nutritious snacks to maintain control over food choices and promote healthier snacking habits.