When Is A Snack Really A Meal?
BOSTON (CBS) - It's one of the first pieces of advice that you hear when you are trying to lose weight: snacking can be good for you. The key is in how you define a "snack".
According to registered dietician Elisa Zied, daily snacking is on the rise as busy Americans grow short on time. "In the '70s, about 71 percent of adults snacked every day; now it's about 97 percent," she said.
Dieticians have long-touted the benefits of snacking; the problem is that the line between a snack and a meal is becoming increasingly blurry.
Snacks, according to Zied, should be less than 200 calories and should include fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy and lean meats.
"Even if it's a small sandwich, they're considering that a snack and they're eating 24/7," Zied said. "That's really because all this enticing, high-fat, high-calorie fare is increasingly available."
WBZ-TV's Paula Ebben reports.
They are also affordable. Many fast food restaurants carry snacks on their dollar menus. Some of the snack wraps have 400 calories and more than 20 grams of fat. If something is three or four hundred calories, experts say that's getting into meal territory.
Of the six fast food restaurants we contacted, four provided statements. McDonalds, Burger King and Kentucky Fried Chicken all said their menus include different portion and calorie choices, and they provide nutrition information so customers can make informed decisions. Popeye's statement said they believe their menu should be enjoyed as part of a balanced lifestyle.
Many fast food restaurants offer salads and fruits as healthy alternatives.
