What are some nutrient-dense snacks?
Foods closer to their natural state are more nutrient dense than processed foods. Foods near the top of MyPyramid are low in nutrient density. When looking for nutrient-dense snacks, don’t be misled by the term “natural.” A snack that carries the word “natural” on a label is not guaranteed to be low in fat, sugar or sodium. Marketers use it to get consumers to buy their products. Are there “bad” snacks? Foods, including snack foods, are not “good” or “bad” by themselves. No single food offers all of the essential nutrients in the amounts needed by the body. There may, however, be “bad snacking habits.” Snacks may be eaten out of boredom or habit instead of hunger. Too often, eating takes place without thinking about what’s being eaten, how much or why. This can lead to overeating. Children should learn to enjoy healthy snacks; the habit will then be carried over into adulthood.
