2023-09-16 07:11:31
New Study Finds Unhealthy Snacking Negates Benefits of Healthy Meals, Increases Risk of Strokes and Cardiovascular Diseases
Researchers from Imperial College London have conducted a study revealing that one-fourth of individuals nullify the benefits of healthy meals by consuming unhealthy snacks. This detrimental snacking habit significantly raises the risk of strokes and cardiovascular diseases. The findings of the study, published in the European Journal of Nutrition, shed light on the snacking behaviors of 854 participants.
The research, known as “Zoe’s Predictions,” was a joint effort between Imperial College London and Zoe Company, an organization devoted to promoting healthy nutrition. It aimed to explore the impact of snacks on the benefits derived from healthy foods.
The study found that nearly half of the participants failed to align the healthiness of their main meals with their snack choices. This discrepancy negatively affected health measures such as blood sugar and fat levels. However, the researchers emphasized that this issue can be tackled through a simple nutritional strategy to improve health.
Dr. Sarah Berry, from Imperial College London, urged individuals to replace unhealthy snacks like biscuits, chips, and cakes with healthier alternatives such as fruits and nuts. She emphasized that making this switch is a straightforward way to enhance one’s health.
An analysis conducted in the snack-loving United Kingdom revealed that snacks constitute 24 percent of people’s daily energy intake. Snacks consumed in the UK encompass a variety of options, ranging from candy bars and nuts to pastries and fruits. On average, snackers consumed 2.28 snacks per day, and 47 percent of individuals indulged in two snacks daily, with 29 percent exceeding this number.
Contrary to popular belief, the analysis showed that snacking itself is not inherently harmful, as long as the snacks chosen are healthy. Individuals who frequently consumed high-quality snacks like nuts and fresh fruit were more likely to maintain a healthy weight compared to those who did not snack or opted for unhealthy snacks. Additionally, consuming high-quality snacks was associated with improved metabolic health and reduced feelings of hunger.
Alas, the study found that 26 percent of participants consumed healthy main meals but opted for poor-quality snacks. Processed foods and sugary sweets were linked to negative health scores and increased feelings of hunger. Unhealthy snacks were also associated with higher body mass index, visceral fat mass, and postprandial triglyceride concentrations, all of which are risk factors for metabolic diseases like stroke, cardiovascular disease, and obesity.
The most popular snacks reported were biscuits, fruits, nuts, seeds (such as peanuts), cheese, butter, cakes, and pies. Cakes and pies were the largest contributors to calorie intake, accounting for 14 percent of calories consumed. Meanwhile, ice cream and frozen desserts, donuts and pastries, candy, and nuts and snacks contributed to 12 percent, 11 percent, and 11 percent of calorie intake, respectively.
Interestingly, the timing of snacking appeared to play a critical role in health. Those who snacked after 9 pm displayed poorer blood markers compared to individuals who snacked at other times. Snackers during this late time tended to opt for energy-dense foods high in fat and sugar.
Dr. Kate Birmingham, from Imperial College London, underscored the importance of food quality in fostering positive health outcomes. She emphasized the need for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, protein, and legumes as the best way to improve health.
In light of these findings, it is crucial for individuals to be mindful of their snacking habits and make healthier choices to optimize their overall health and reduce the risk of strokes and cardiovascular diseases.]
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