The change in our eating patterns

In this interview with Radio NZ, Julie discusses a recent report indicating Gen-Z are shunning the more traditional 3 meals a day, in favour of snacking.

Meals are generally the way we gain many of the essential nutrients we need, from the variety of whole foods we might include: particularly wholegrains, dairy products, fruits or eggs at breakfast, and meats, fish, legumes or eggs, and lots of vegetables in our evening meals. If we move to snacking in place of meals we need take extra care to snack wisely. Choosing plenty of vegetables, fruits, legumes and nuts, also meats, oily fish, eggs and dairy products is key. Chilled dips such as hummus or vegetable dips with baby carrots or mini cucumbers are a nutritious snack but other snacks in the day will need to provide more protein, iron, calcium and zinc for example. Try peanut butter on whole grain crackers for some protein and fibre. If choosing sushi or poke bowls, options with salmon, tuna or beef, plus avocado will provides some essential fats. And order a side of edamane beans. Smoothies with yoghurt and milk will give protein and calcium and if fruits are added it will boost the fibre content and offer more vitamins.

If choosing packaged snack foods Julie suggested using the Health Star Rating as a guide to make better choices. The higher the rating, the better the overall nutrient profile compared to snacks with a lower rating, in the same category.

Gaining all the essential nutrients we need for great health could be harder if snacking rather than enjoying traditional meals, so the key is to snack wisely. Choose a wide variety of delicious whole foods. And enjoy!

For the full article see here.