Spain reserves the October 22 to put the focus on a custom that is as everyday as it is valuable: National Snack DayThe quote aims to remind us that this mid-afternoon break isn't a mere indulgence, but a habit that can contribute to health and well-being if we choose our food wisely.
In this context, professionals such as the nutritionist Maria Kindelan They stress the importance of maintaining the habit, especially in a country where more than 57% of adults live with excess weight and around the 6,7% presents anxiety linked to emotional eating.
Origin and drivers of the day
The initiative is supported by the group Knee, an artisan chain born in Madrid more than 86 yearsFrom the company, its marketing manager, Iván Pulido, aims to recover the social value of this break that unites generations and consolidate the brand as a popular snack spot, without losing sight of the cultural nature of the tradition.
Why snacking matters for health
Snacking helps stabilize energy and avoid the glucose ups and downs that lead to the well-known glycemic crashWhen this fall appears, the body can activate hormones such as cortisol and increase the feeling of hunger through ghrelin, which favors impulsive, unbalanced choices.
These peaks and valleys are associated with irritability, poor concentration and nighttime binge eating; on the contrary, a well-planned snack facilitates a well-being and rest higher quality nighttime meal and helps you get to dinner with a regulated appetite.
Quick and balanced ideas for home
If you feel like celebrating at home, here are some simple suggestions for homemade snacks that combine satiety, flavor and nutritional balance:
- Natural yogurt with fruits and seeds: provides protein, fiber and healthy fats in a fresh and quick bite.
- Fruit smoothie with green leaves: a light mix with spinach or other greens that adds micronutrients without heaviness.
- Whole wheat bread with tomato and mozzarella: Lightly toasted and with a touch of oil and basil for a tasty and complete option.
Where to have a snack outside: charming options
Those who prefer to go out can opt for a coffee and something sweet in the cafes and pastry shops of the city. Gibraltar Field, where there's no shortage of established places like Okay or Bernal. Sharing time with family or friends keeps the social aspect of the afternoon snack alive.
Juices for snacks: what the industry says
Coinciding with the month of October and the start of extracurricular activities, the National Association of Juices and Gazpachos remember that the fruit juices They can be a good snack companion due to their ease of transport and their contribution to the five daily servings of fruits and vegetables.
100% squeezed juices are obtained from fruit and, by regulation, are no added sugars by lawAfter being squeezed, they go through processes that help preserve their organoleptic characteristics. Orange juice, for example, stands out for its Vitamin C, always within the framework of a varied diet and an active lifestyle.
Another advantage is their practicality: they are easily transported and consumed immediately, a format ready to take that can fit into busy schedules of children and adults without any prior preparation.
Beyond the product, families have a key role: the nutritional education and supervision help children develop habits that are tailored to their needs, combining daily movement and dietary choices adapted to their energy expenditure.
From an economic and environmental point of view, the juice sector is linked to primary production and acquires around 20% of the volume of fruits and vegetables, with an impact on employment and commitment to quality and environmental responsibility.
This quote aims to give prominence to a simple and conscious pause: choosing a balanced snackWhether at home or out, it helps manage afternoon hunger, improves mood, and helps you feel more at ease at dinnertime, enjoying a very traditional tradition without losing sight of your health.
