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Is it O.K. to eat snacks in between meals?

Last Updated: January 27, 2009

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Healthy snack selections between meals can be beneficial for all ages and populations. You need to choose healthy snacks and eat smaller meals so that calorie level for the day is appropriate. Great quick snack choices are fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products such as yogurt, whole grain crackers and cheese, or a few nuts.

Below are some of the benefits of healthy snacks for various groups:

Young children: Children have small stomachs that hold very little food at one time. Snacking not only keeps their energy level up but also provides missing nutrients such as vitamins and minerals to their diet.

Teens: Teenagers have high energy and nutrient needs to support their growing bodies.

Adults: Healthy snack selections can help with weight management. Snacking helps prevent overeating at meals, leading to lower calorie consumption. Snacking also helps in controlling blood sugar level and helps prevent hypoglycemia.

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