5 rules about snacks that are meant to be broken

There are so many debates about whether or not we should be snacking, and then if we do decide to snack there seem to be all these rules that float around. It’s no wonder that people have a hard time trying to workout if they are eating a healthy and well-balanced diet or not.

It’s about time we ditched some of those rules, starting today with 5 rules about snacks that are meant to be broken.

// Don’t Snack
Let’s start with the most obvious – there are a tonne of people out there that will say that you shouldn’t snack at all. Whilst I agree that snacking too much can certainly lead to additional calories and weight gain, I don’t think that you have to completely forego snacks. I personally struggle to eat a big enough meal three times a day that will last me through to the next meal so find that I need to supplement with a snack in between times. Make good choices with your snacks, and only have a snack if you are actually hungry.

// Don’t eat fat
Healthy fats help your body break down and absorb nutrients like vitamins A and E and beta-carotene in fruits and vegetables. There is nothing wrong with a bit of fat in your diet, in fact we NEED fat in our diet to function! Incorporate healthy fats such as nuts and seeds into your diet, including your snacks.

// Don’t eat packaged Food
Until very recently I would have 100% believed in this rule! However there have been some exciting developments in the snacking market in New Zealand this year and some big (and small!) companies have been bringing out an amazing range of snacks, which are pre-packaged but contain good for you ingredients! Tasti have brought out a range of SuperGrains bars which are a great source of protein and fibre, taste delicious (the almond, cranberry and linseed is my favourite) and can be found in the health snack or muesli bar aisle of all leading supermarkets! The best thing about the SuperGrains bars is that you can buy a packet and keep a bar or two in your car, desk drawer and handbag for those times when you really need something, right now!

// Give up Processed Foods
Whilst as a general rule I agree with this, I think this rule is made to be broken on occasion. Processed foods are foods which are not found in their whole form, they have been modified somewhat to be turned into the ‘food’ you see on the shelves. Things that fall into this category are items like chips, biscuits, chocolate and lollies. While they should definitely not make up a large portion of your diet I believe that on occasion as a treat it is acceptable to have a small portion of processed foods. Just remember that treats should be treats, not an everyday or every week occurrence.

// Ditch the Carbs
Low carb seems to be all the rage at the moment! While it is true that as a general population we eat far more carbohydrates than our bodies need, it is the form of carbohydrates rather than the fact we are eating carbohydrates that is the issue. Cut back on the processed carbohydrates and instead choose options which are in their whole form. Ditch the chips, biscuits and daily chocolate bar and opt for whole grains instead.

This post was made possible thanks to Tasti, as usual all opinions and words are my own. The new SuperGrains are available in all leading supermarkets now, with three new flavours to try; Almond, Cranberry and Linseed, Pepita, Chia and Manuka Honey and Cocoa, Toasted Coconut and Quinoa.

If you enjoyed this post you may also enjoy my post on 5 Winning tactics to keep your Hangry at bay.

~~ WIN WIN WIN ~~
To be in to win a box of each of the new Tasti SuperGrains flavours simply comment below and let me know which flavour you would most like to try! CONGRATULATIONS TO Megan Shaw!