In our quest for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the role of snacks cannot be underestimated. Snacking can be a valuable part of a balanced diet, helping to curb hunger between meals and provide essential nutrients. However, the choices we make when it comes to snacks can significantly impact our metabolism, either supporting or hindering our overall health goals. While regular, balanced snacks can help maintain a stable metabolism, improper snack choices can disrupt this delicate balance.
We spoke with Jesse Feder, RDN, CPT, to learn about the one seemingly healthy snack that can negatively impact your metabolism if you’re not vigilant. Feder revealed that granola is the one snack that may seem harmless, but could come with downsides if we don’t choose carefully.
Granola
Granola, often touted as a wholesome snack, can paradoxically become a metabolism wrecker if not chosen wisely. While granola does contain beneficial ingredients like oats, nuts, and seeds that provide fiber and healthy fats, many store-bought varieties are loaded with added sugars and excessive calories. Consuming large portions of sugary granola can lead to blood sugar spikes and subsequent crashes, which can disrupt metabolism over time and contribute to weight gain.
"The sugar content in store-bought granolas tends to be quite high. This can lead to inflammation throughout the body and gut, which can negatively impact your metabolism. That is why I typically recommend making your own granola at home without added sugars or looking for a no sugar added option when possible," Feder says.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, maintaining a healthy lifestyle involves making mindful choices, even when it comes to seemingly innocuous snacks. Snacking can indeed be a valuable part of a balanced diet, helping to satiate hunger and provide essential nutrients.
Many commercial brand granolas are laden with added sugars and excess calories, which can lead to blood sugar spikes, inflammation, and long-term metabolic disruptions. To safeguard our metabolism, opting for homemade granola without added sugars or seeking no-sugar-added alternatives is a smart choice on our journey to optimal health.
