100 calorie packs.

Question
hi,

I am student writing a paper on 100 calorie packs.  I am interested to find out if
a nutritionist would recommend these packs as a snack. Or any other thoughts
on the recent trend. Thanks so much. Sincerely,
Gwendolyn Heasley

Answer
Hello Gwendoyln!


Thanks for your excellent nutrition question. We should not overdo it with the 100 calorie snack packs. Dietitians agree that the best snacks should satisfy hunger while helping meet our daily dietary needs, especially for fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy.  The 100-calorie packs work best when it comes to foods we should enjoy in limited amounts, "A snack like nuts is perfect for 100-calorie packs, because lots of folks tend to mindlessly eat larger servings.  "And even though nuts are nutrient-rich, they could contribute too many calories if the packs were not portion-controlled."  

That goes as well for sweets, which are a weakness for many dieters. Sweet treats like 100-calorie ice cream bars and cookies are a great way to have your cake and eat it, too -- as long as you can stop at one.

"I support the 100-calorie packaging to help with portion control, but if consumers think it is fine to eat more than one, it negates the benefit.

However, packaging items in smaller containers can help control mindless overeating. "Studies show the larger the container, the more people eat." So by reducing the size of plates, bags, and containers, it should help us reduce the amount we eat."
I would rather see people choose snacks that provide needed nutrients while taming hunger. For example, "in only 160 calories, a serving of almonds is satisfying and provides heart-healthy fats, fiber, and calcium."

For more information on healthier snacks check out my book "The Lighter Side of Dark Chocolate: Take it To Heart" by George Rapitis. It is available at Barnes and Noble, Borders, www. amazon.com, www.authorhouse.com, or your favorite bookstore.

-George Rapitis, MS
www.juiceblend.com




Dietitians agree that the best snacks satisfy hunger while helping meet our daily dietary needs, especially for fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy.

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