Snacks

When I’m in a pinch to eat something because I haven’t eaten in a normal pattern that day… what can I do to hinder my need to over snack when I’m hungry… example…

I may have a cheese stick… then some nuts … then a piece of apple and then something else… it may not be a lot but sometimes my snack turns into a meal but I’m then in that regret mode of should I have just waited for the next meal time or had a couple bites and left myself still wanting more?

Hi Kimberly,
One idea is to pre-plan balanced snacks for the week – an apple with walnuts, banana with peanut butter, celery and hummus, etc. Once you’ve eaten your snack, wait 20-30 minutes and if you’re truly still hungry it may really be time for a meal! As you mentioned, every day can look a little different so it’s ok if dinner comes at 4:00 one day. Maybe you have your main meal a little earlier and then a snack around 8:00 so you’re not super hungry before bed. Giving yourself flexibility and allowing your body’s hunger cues to guide your day instead of a rigid eating schedule can also help relieve the guilt we sometimes feel when we’re hungry for a meal at an atypical “meal hour.” Staying well-hydrated and well-rested can also help differentiate true hunger signals from other signals your body may be sending you.

Hopefully this helps! Let us know if you have any questions!