Are You a Binge Snacker?

Jonesing for a snack right now? You’re not alone. An eye-popping 91 percent of Americans say they snack at least once a day, with 62 percent noshing up to twice a day, according to a Nielsen survey of 1,100 adults that's scheduled to be released next month.

It’s not how often people reach for a bite that’s actually so surprising but how widespread a new behavior called “binge-snacking,” which involves having multiple snack attacks without much control over when cravings strike and how much is consumed, seems to be. Clearly, it resonated with the survey takers: 78 percent copped to binge snacking, with a slightly higher percentage of women (39 percent) reporting “occasional” snack binges than men (29 percent).

MORE: Top 28 Best Healthy Snacks

Women reported typically noshing on chocolate, candy, or cookies, while dudes went for salty stuff like pretzels and chips. All respondents cited cravings as the top reason to hit the vending machine or snack aisle, but women also said they snacked to relieve stress, deal with boredom, or indulge themselves. Guys, on the other hand, said their main reason for snacking was to satisfy hunger. And though we all do our biggest snacking in front of the TV, men were more likely to take a food break while working. Women tended to reach for a bite while using their smartphone or on the computer.

Though the survey is geared toward snack manufacturers and marketers, it sheds fascinating light on our own eating behavior. If you’re trying to shed weight or eat healthier, getting a sense of how often you nosh, what you reach for, and why you do it can help you rein in over-snacking. (For example, if boredom often triggers chocolate binges for you, recognizing that and taking steps to do something else to fill your time can help.) Learn more smart snacking habits that can help you lose weight.

MORE: 6 Ways to Stop Mindless Grazing BEFORE It Starts

1. Prev:How to Lose Those Last 5 Pounds Forever
2. Next:The Secret Ingredient That Can Help You Lose Weight