Portion control was a buzz word of the '00s as a solution to the supersized '90s. Research showed us that when we ate popcorn from a large bag we subconsciously ate more  than if we had eaten it out of a small bag.  And when given a plate of food, whether big or small, we would tend to eat mindlessly until it was clean. The solution thrust upon us? 100-calorie snack packs.

These shiny, crinkly packages of mini cookies and chips promised to help us lose weight. They claimed to do so by being a portioned controlled snack that improves our will power. With more and more products popping up in 2010, is this the answer to a healthy decade?

The short answer: probably not. Here are some things to remember:

It’s about energy

People snack out of necessity and pleasure, and to escape boredom, among other reasons. The reason we should combine snacks with smaller meals is to feel energized throughout the day or before a long run or training session. When we overindulge in snacks and meals, it can affect our weight, energy levels and sleep patterns.

Pay attention and listen to your body

Make your resolution to get back in touch with your body. Don’t be fooled by advertisers that claim you must consume pre-packaged snacks to stay in control.  Emphasize balance - not calorie counting or deprivation.

There is nothing magic about the number 100

It’s a nice round number, but your snacks should match your needs – not an arbitrary target. If you are about to run 20km, 100 calories is not enough; if you are less active or eat larger meals, perhaps you don’t need a snack. 100 calories is not synonymous with healthy.

Snack packs create more waste and cost more

16-279% more, according to a report published by the Centre for Science in the Public Interest. With sales of 100-calorie packs exceeding $200 million per year, there is a lot of packaging ending up in landfills.

A balanced snack or meal combines protein, carbohydrates and a small amount of healthy fat

Most 100-calorie snack packs do not provide this balance, and are generally low in fibre. This will lead you to feel hungry sooner than if you had you eaten a balanced snack. Try instead a banana with peanut butter, 1-2% yogurt with a few nuts, or some 22% cheese with whole grain crackers.

Have a happy and healthy new year!

by Kate Comeau