Are you a grazing eater?

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 297, 1 August 1989, Page 12

Are you a grazing eater?

Americans have given us not just television, movies and popcorn - but also two new eating habits, grazing and recreational eating.

Grazing is eating lots of small snacks, without usually having formal meals at regular intervals. Many children and adolescents eat in this way, finding a "little and often" food ideal for their high energy needs. Recreational eating is food we choose when socialising or eating away from home - often this is seen as being food which is z? special treat in some way. Both habits are increasing, as more and more New Zealanders are eating meals away from home, said Heartbeat dietitian, Margaret Gibbs. Statistics show that the average person eats at least one meal out each week. Think about how often you eat away from home - whether

it's a quick snack while shopping, takeaways before going off to sport, having a pizza delivered or having a formal meal at a restaurant. All reflect the trends towards grazing and recreational eating. They are further encouraged by the high visibility of ready-to-eat foods in shopping malls, arcades, entertainment centres and virtually everywhere people go. Table eating In the past, eating to meet nutritional needs or a balanced diet tended to relate to meals at home, round the table. Recreational type eating was only for special occasions and grazing was uncommon - so their effects on overall food intake were not impor-

tant. Today, with the emphasis on the role of food in developing and keeping good health, these types of eating behaviour must be considered. Care needs to be taken to ensure good nutrition. This is helped by the wide range of different foods and dishes - ready-prepared or in takeaway form, served in food bars or restaurants - which ensure grazing or recreational eating can be enjoyable and good for you. If you tend to have these food habits, try to remember the four food groups which create a balanced diet. Ensure that the food you eat, over a period of time, includes a variety from these groups - to ensure your good health. Food groups The four food groups are breads and cereals, fruits and vegetables, milk and foods made

from milk, including cheese, yoghurt and icecream, meat and foods which can be exchanged for meat such as legumes, nuts and seeds. The main problem with some ready prepared or takeaway type foods is that they may be higher in fat, sugar or salt than is desirable. Be mindful of this when making your food choices - try to avoid too many of this type of snack and meal. Many food places take pride in catering to the needs of their customers. They are aware of the new interest in eating for health and want to provide suitable foods. Don't be afraid to ask for what you want or suggest changes or alternatives. At the end of the day, it is up to you to consider what you are eating as part of your overall nutrition needs. If you are a grazer or recreational eater, choose wisely.