A survey by the USDA shows snacking now accounts for at least 400 extra calories per day. Here's three tips to help you snack healthier.
First, keep snacks nearby in your purse or at the office. Health experts say blood sugars dip three to five hours after you eat.
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Hunger puts your body in famine mode and slows your metabolism. Small frequent snacking helps your metabolism normalize blood sugar to avoid weight gain.
Next, shake up boring snacks like rice cakes by topping them with peanut butter and raisins.
You can also try snacks from different cultures. Instead of the usual trail mix, try a Japanese mix of rice crackers, spicy wasabi peas and sesame sticks.
Finally, look for healthier alternatives to your favorite things. One cup of sorbet has 100 fewer calories than one cup of ice cream. And making hot cocoa by mixing one cup of non-fat milk and two teaspoons of unsweetened cocoa powder will satisfy your sweet tooth for less than 100 calories.
Health experts also warn, with so many posts about food on social media sites, beware of virtual temptations that can lead you to sinful snacking!