Other researchers have found that grazing on six small meals daily offers some benefits in weight control. Each time food is eaten, there's an increase in our metabolic activity, which may burn some additional calories if a full day s food is divided into six parts. Diabetics, in particular, need to eat regularly, so the pattern of six smaller meals daily can help with blood glucose control. Children need snacks to meet their nutritional needs as they grow. Elderly people also benefit from smaller meals, because some experience a reduction in appetite.
Smaller meals are often better tolerated than larger ones.
With today's faster pace of life, many people find themselves eating on the run. The snack food industry offers all sorts of tempting products that aren't necessarily high in nutrients, but many are high in fat, sugar and sodium. Healthy snacking takes a little planning. Keep your refrigerator and cupboard stocked with healthy foods, and use snacks as a way to fill in nutrient gaps. Here are some healthy snack ideas based on the Food Guide Pyramid.