Fat Free
Not All it’s Cracked Up to Be

"Fat-free snacks rarely offer much of a calorie savings because the fat is generally replaced by extra carbohydrates," says Dr. Janice Stuff, an assistant professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine who advises parents how to choose healthy snacks for children. "Low-fiber, low-fat snacks also don’t trigger a feeling of fullness very quickly, which can cause children to overindulge in these tasty treats."

Dr. Stuff reminds parents that both traditional full-fat and fat-free snacks are in the "use sparingly" uppermost tip of the Food Guide Pyramid because they offer little nutritional value beyond calories. On the other hand, fat-free snacks like fruits and vegetables are loaded with vitamins, minerals and fiber, and are an important part of a child’s daily diet. Carrots, apples, celery, and bananas all make good healthy snacks. Low-fat foods like reduced-fat yogurts, cheeses and milk, also provide plenty of nutrition, while helping to keep a child’s fat intake under control.

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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