How to Curb Pesach Snacking: 7 Tips from a Dietitian

Familiar with the "snacking problem" that many of us face? Nir Cohen, a clinical dietitian and consultant for the Ministry of Health's nutrition department, highlights a common issue: people eating without any real hunger or need, influenced by wrong eating habits.

To stop this trend, especially during Pesach when we're home more, cooking, and surrounded by food all day, Cohen offers seven practical tips to help us return to healthy, structured eating habits:

1. Adopt the Right Mindset - Remember we are like 'royalty', and our eating habits should reflect this.
2. Plan Ahead - As the saying goes, "The end depends on the start." Shop for foods that align with healthy eating habits.
3. Stick to Regular Meals - Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are essential, with an emphasis on breakfast, known in Gemara as "pat-shacharit", which offers various benefits such as better cognitive function compared to skipping it.
4. Midday Snacks - Allow snacks between meals, but call them "midday snacks" instead of "snacks" to avoid overindulgence. Recommended foods include fruit, a handful of fresh nuts, natural yogurt, etc.
5. "Pat Besalo" – Planning day trips during the holiday? Following the wise advice of the Sages, bring along a light meal or main dish. Preparing the food the night before is recommended, using storage containers or a cooler to keep it fresh.
6. Avoid Temptation – Although we stock our homes with good things for Pesach, try to minimize keeping tempting, unhealthy foods around that might lead to impulsive snacking. You're less likely to go to the store mid-day to buy more.
7. Involve Others – Have a conversation with a partner or family member to organize your day better. With partners in your quest to reduce snacking, success is more likely.