Healthy Snacking

Studies have shown that we are all snacking a bit more frequently during the lockdown, maybe it’s working from home, or boredom or stress?

 As a general rule I’m not a big fan of snacking but, like all areas of nutrition, this is something that needs to be personalised. There are certainly times when it is appropriate to include a snack and it’s a good opportunity to get a nutrient boost as well as eating something delicious!

 Our choice of snacks has been highlighted in the media this week and it is always good to shine a light on the little tricks that food manufacturers use to get us to buy their products!

 Action on Salt examined 119 different snacks that were marketed as ‘healthy’ and found that many items such as Hummus Crisps, Roasted Chickpeas and Wasabi Peas were very high in salt. 

 The organisation stated that products they looked at featured on-pack nutrition claims, which, whilst legal, mislead consumers by creating a distorted ‘health halo’ and discouraging shoppers from scrutinising the ingredients more thoroughly.

 When choosing any processed food it is important to read the label, be wary of claims like :

 High protein

Gluten Free

High in Fibre

Vegan

Contains Sea salt

Sugar Free

Low Fat

Always read the small print on the back of the product and consider how much sugar / salt is contained per serving. Try to avoid for sweeteners, stabilisers, flavourings.

If you would like to chat about how healthy snacking can fit into your nutrition plan please get in touch