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Tips for Avoiding Unplanned Snacking
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Having regular low-calorie snacks throughout the day along with regular smaller meals is a good way to manage your hunger. Plan snacks as part of your overall calories for the day, and avoid eating unplanned calories.
- Try not to sample food while cooking.
- Don't eat unplanned snacks.
When you're tempted to snack at times that you didn't plan for, substitute a glass of water with lemon, and snack on carrot or celery sticks. Avoid sweetened drinks like sodas, special coffee drinks, energy drinks, and juices. They add a lot of calories.
- Try a different activity.
When you feel the urge to have an unplanned snack, try an activity that does not involve eating, such as taking a bath, reading a book, or doing a hands-on activity.
- Make dinner the last thing you eat until breakfast.
- Use portion control.
Measure one portion of a snack into a bowl so you aren't tempted to keep reaching into the box or bag.
Current as of: September 20, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
