8 Healthy & Delicious Keto Snacks To Indulge In Anytime - iDiva.com

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Rats are teaching us how to snack, but is rat snacking a healthy trend? - India Today

Brad Bird's 'Ratatouille' features many memorable scenes, but today, let's discuss the one where Remy reunites with his brother Emile. When the two brothers meet after a long separation, Remy makes Emile try different food combinations with ingredients he scavenges from the pantry of Gusteau's restaurant.

Wondering why we are discussing 'Ratatouille'? Well, rats are renowned for their scavenging nature, essentially consuming whatever they find.

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This unpredictable and resourceful eating habit of rodents has transformed into a peculiar yet captivating food trend, causing a frenzy on social media:

Rat snacking

In a world where food trends pop up faster than toast, rat snacking has captured everyone's attention.

What: This trend involves eating like rats - indulging in snacks between meals and experimenting with unconventional food pairings.

Food enthusiasts embracing this trend are transforming leftovers into delightful bites and saving money on the side (you know, like Indian moms all over do with the leftover dal from the previous night, turn it into dal parantha the next morning?).

British supermarket company, Waitrose, has also highlighted this trend in its annual food and drink report.

In the report, this trend is described as "the unashamed joy of enjoying unusual snack combinations (that only you appreciate!), often created from raiding the kitchen cupboards."

While social media revels in the joy of snacking like rats and exploring unconventional food combinations, what do experts think about rat snacking?

Mix, match, and DIY your rat-snack

Jashan Vij, health and fat loss coach, tells India Today that this bizarre trend of rat snacking involves humans mimicking rodent behaviour by scavenging for leftover food to create a meal with odds and ends.

He explains that people have been enjoying small, spontaneous snacks made from unconventional food combinations.

"These snacks typically involve do-it-yourself mixes using ingredients that aren't commonly paired," he says.

Rat snacking is all about turning leftovers into delectable bites (Photo: Pexels/Cottonbro studio)

Why is this food trend going viral?

Shedding light on the popularity of this trend, nutritionist Nupuur Patil explains why people enjoy rat snacking so much.

She states that diet trends, in general, gain popularity due to the desire for weight management.

In simple terms, rat snacking involves intermittent fasting, where rats eat all their daily food in brief, concentrated periods.

The diet has captured widespread attention and enthusiasm among people for several reasons.

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• Rat snacking offers a flexible approach to eating, allowing individuals to consume their daily food within specific windows, often aligning with their lifestyle and preferences.
• The snacking method simplifies meal planning and eliminates the need for constant calorie counting, making it a convenient option for those seeking dietary freedom.

Is rat snacking healthy?

While this trend encourages embracing impulsive culinary cravings and motivates individuals to craft snacks that are distinctive and unconventional, Jashan emphasises that this unnecessary habit of eating leftovers mindlessly can be 'catastrophic' for anybody's health.

"We should adhere to a proper eating schedule. Our bodies are not dustbins, and we should be mindful of what we eat. Our primary focus should always be to replenish our body with high-quality nutrients. We are humans, not rats, so our eating habits should be human-like too," he adds.

Nupuur also feels that rat snacking, while intriguing, may not be considered a healthy alternative to full meals.

She says, "It involves consuming odd food combinations in small portions, mimicking rats' scavenging behaviour. While it offers flexibility and convenience, it may lack essential nutrients found in balanced meals. It's essential to prioritise nutrient-rich foods for overall health."

Keep a tab on nutritional value while experimenting with food combinations (Photo: Pexels/Nappy)

Can this trend help in losing weight?

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Nupuur shares that by encouraging individuals to opt for smaller, more frequent meals or snacks throughout the day, rat snacking may help regulate hunger levels and prevent overeating during main meals, leading to weight loss.

"Overall, if the diet is done mindfully and with a focus on nutritious choices, it can support weight management goals," she adds.

A chef's take on rat snacking

Chef Nehal Karkera also shares insights into this trend, "People love snacking and are always seeking new ways to be creative without actually cooking. While you are young, you can get away with it and eat whatever you want, but as you grow older, you come back to your senses."

He feels that this is a trend and that it will fade.

"As a chef, I genuinely feel some of the rat snacking ideas are quite creative, like cheese-wrapped pickle, and vanilla ice cream with French fries. However, there are some that make me cringe. We have our own version of rat snacks that have been trending for years now, like masala dosa ice cream or the Parle-G omelette. I wish I never saw videos of them, but I guess it works for some," he adds.

A little about human behaviour

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While discussing the human inclination for thrilling tastes, psychiatrist Dr Sarthak Dave suggests that our hectic schedules often limit the time available for elaborate recipes.

Consequently, individuals seek to infuse excitement into their meals by experimenting with the unconventional combination of their favourite foods, hoping to uncover a more exhilarating taste.

Dr Sarthak says that sharing these culinary experiments on social media enhances the experience.

Receiving likes and positive comments becomes a small but rewarding gesture, boosting our happiness when others appreciate our creations.

Can rat snacking make you happy? (Image: Vani Gupta/India Today)

According to Dr Sarthak, preparing a complex dish with numerous ingredients and a lengthy process demands time.

On the other hand, assembling a quick combination like a cheese slice, pickle, and gulab jamun is quick.

He elaborates, "The distinct taste resulting from such combinations provides a unique dopamine rush. Sharing these experiences on social media and receiving validation is akin to the icing on the cake. This uncomplicated yet thrilling approach to flavour pairing becomes a delightful habit, offering a swift and tasty escape from our busy lives."

But...

Nupuur suggests that individuals should approach rat snacking with caution and mindfulness to ensure a balanced and healthy dietary pattern.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Although rat snacking encourages creativity in food combinations, it's essential to prioritise nutritional balance and variety to meet the body's dietary requirements adequately.
• Excessive consumption of processed or unhealthy ingredients in these unconventional snacks may lead to adverse health effects like weight gain, nutrient deficiencies, and metabolic imbalances.
• While experimenting with rat snacking, listening to one's body and paying attention to how different combinations affect energy levels, digestion, and overall well-being is crucial.
• Moderation, balance, and mindful eating practices are key to deriving its benefits while minimising potential drawbacks.

Published By:

Mehak Malhotra

Published On:

Jan 25, 2024

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Rats are teaching us how to snack, but is rat snacking a healthy trend? - India Today
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10 reasons why roasted chana is the best food to snack - Times of India

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10 reasons why roasted chana is the best food to snack  Times of India
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Republic Day 2024: 7 tricolour snacks to celebrate the day - DNA India

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6 Protein-Packed Snacks To Keep You Energised All Day - NDTV Food

Protein-rich snacks: In today's fast world, staying healthy can be tough, especially when looking for quick, good-for-you snacks. It's easy to go for sugary options, but they often leave us feeling tired. That's where protein-rich snacks come in-they're like health superheroes for those of us on the move. These snacks are easy, tasty, and keep us going. In this guide, we're exploring these snacks to help you make smart choices. We want to make staying healthy simple, even when life gets chaotic. So, let's dive into the world of snacks that not only taste good but also keep you feeling great in the midst of a busy schedule.

The Power of Protein:

Protein, a fundamental macronutrient composed of amino acids, plays a pivotal role in various bodily functions. From tissue repair to immune support, healthy skin, and more, protein stands as a nutritional powerhouse. Discover the benefits of incorporating protein-rich snacks into your on-the-go routine, providing sustained energy, curbing cravings, and promoting overall well-being.
Also Read: 11 Ways to Get Enough Protein in Your Diet

Here Are 6 Protein-Packed Snacks to Keep You Energised All Day:

1. Greek Yogurt:

A readily available and convenient option, Greek yogurt proves to be a versatile snack loaded with protein, probiotics, and calcium. Opt for plain, unsweetened varieties and elevate the taste with fresh fruits, nuts, or a drizzle of honey. The combination of protein and healthy fats ensures you stay satiated and nourished throughout your bustling day.

2. Nutty Trail Mix:

Also Read: What Is The Right Time To Have Protein? Expert Reveals

Nuts and seeds emerge as excellent portable protein sources. Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds not only pack protein but also offer fibre and essential nutrients. Create a simple trail mix by combining these gems with dried fruits, providing a satisfying and energy-boosting snack. Keep an eye on portion sizes, as the nutritional benefits make them a valuable addition to your on-the-go repertoire.

3. Eggs:

Hard-boiled eggs, a simple and easily accessible protein source, serve as a worthy substitute for less nutritious options. Complete with essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, eggs offer a balanced snack. Easily portable, they become an ideal choice to fuel your day. Adjust based on your cholesterol levels by removing the yolk if necessary.

4. Cheese:

Also Read: How Much Protein Is In An Egg White: Unveiling Facts!

Cheeses, both processed and Paneer, stand as an excellent source of protein. Packed with calcium, essential for bones and teeth, and boasting antioxidants for brain health, cheeses make a wholesome in-between meal snack. Mindful about portion sizes, you can enhance the snack by pairing it with a fruit or vegetable.

5. Plant-Based Protein Picks:

For those seeking plant-based options, consider edamame or roasted chickpeas. Edamame, young soybeans, can be seasoned lightly for a satisfying snack, while roasted chickpeas offer a crunchy, flavorful alternative. Both options provide a protein punch along with fibre, making them excellent choices for sustained energy. Traditional Indian snack, Bhuna Chana, adds vital minerals like manganese, iron, zinc, phosphorus, and magnesium, contributing to protection against non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Achieving health on the move is within reach through mindful selection of protein-packed snacks. From Greek yogurt to nuts, hard-boiled eggs, and plant-based alternatives, the options cater to diverse dietary preferences. By making informed choices and integrating these nutritious snacks into your daily routine, you empower your body with essential nutrients, promoting overall health and well-being, even in the midst of a hectic schedule.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information in this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

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About Rupali DattaRupali Datta is a Clinical Nutritionist and has worked in leading corporate hospitals. She has created and lead teams of professionals to deliver clinical solutions for patients across all medical specialties including critical care. She is a member of the Indian Dietetic Association and Indian Association of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition.

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