Why small portions of snacks are better

If you love to snack, a new study suggests that smaller portions of your favorite chips or sweets are just as satisfying as larger ones.

If you love to snack, a new study suggests that smaller portions of your favorite chips or sweets are just as satisfying as larger ones.The Cornell University study included more than 100 adults who were given small or large portions of the same snack. Those who consumed large portions consumed 77 percent more calories (about 100 calories more) than those who ate small portions. Yet, both groups reported a significant drop in cravings 15 minutes after eating, suggesting that the smaller portions can fit the bill.

The findings are published in the journal Food, Quality and Preference.

"This research supports the notion that eating for pleasure -- hedonic hunger -- is driven more by the availability of foods instead of the food already eaten," study co-author Brian Wansink, a professor of economics, said in a university news release.

"Just a bit satisfies, not magnifies, hunger and craving tendencies for snacks," he added.

"If you want to control your weight, here's the secret: Take a bite and wait. After 15 minutes all you'll remember in your head and in your stomach is that you had a tasty snack," Wansink said.

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0950329312001188