A few years ago I was interviewed by a reporter who was doing an article on snacking. I felt challenged to make snacking an interesting and attention grabbing topic so I looked to what people in other parts of the globe practice. The United Kingdom partakes in afternoon tea. Italy is well known for its afternoon siesta. Most cultures have an afternoon ritual that serves to restore and revive people's spirit and energy.
While food is often a component of this ritual, most people benefit from a practice at this time of day that grounds and recalibrates their blood sugar, mood and energy level all of which serve to enhance the ability to make productive food decisions in the later part of the day. For some it may be a nap, for others it may be a walk, but for many it includes a bite to eat.
Mid-to-late afternoon begins the witching hour for many and it is unrealistic to expect people to wake up at six in the morning and to be productive, calm and balanced individuals without restoring themselves in the second half of the day.
For people who do not consistently snack, packing an emergency snack is like a woman who carries a scarf or shawl in her purse. You never know when you dinner might be delayed or when the restaurant might be too cold. Arming yourself with both will serve to make you more comfortable.
Tend to your stomach and powder your nose for a restored healthy glow that will go farther than powder or lipstick will alone!
