Snacking is a very interesting and important topic to talk about, and that’s what we’re going to cover today. Hunger and cravings aren’t the only reasons people snack. Many people snack to prevent overeating or for appetite control. However, snacking will actually increase a person’s appetite and encourage overeating.
Other reasons for snacking might include:
- Low blood sugar
- Stress
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Boredom
- Habitual snacking
- Social reasons
- Availability
I believe snacking, in general, is worse than a high-carb diet without snacking. Of course, I suggest consuming a low-carb diet with no snacking for a healthy body. But, even if you only cut out snacking, I think you would notice some weight loss. Eating triggers insulin. If you eat three meals and snack, you’re creating a repetitive spike in insulin. Anything that triggers insulin too much eventually creates insulin resistance.
Insulin resistance can potentially lead to:
- Increased gluconeogenesis
- Decreased cognitive function
- Depression, anxiety, and irritability
- An increased risk of cancer
- Weight gain and visceral fat
- An increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke
- An increased risk of diabetes
- An increased risk of high blood pressure
- An increased risk of PCOS
- Weak muscles
- Increased appetite
- Amyloid plaquing in the brain
- A fatty liver
- Vision loss
- Kidney issues
- Neuropathy
Fat and fiber from vegetables are the two types of food that don’t trigger insulin. But, the most important thing to do is to stop snacking. As the first step, stop snacking between meals and have your snacks with your meals instead.
Other things you can do to help stop snacking and support your overall health include:
- Getting on a low-carb diet
- Increasing the fat in your diet (especially at the end of your meal)
- Consuming more vegetable fiber (try having a salad before your meal or combine your fat and fiber)
- Getting more exercise
- Getting plenty of the right nutrients (vitamin B1, potassium, chromium, zinc, magnesium, vitamin D)
Thanks for reading! I hope this increases your awareness of the devastating consequences of snacking. I’ll see you in the next article.
