Even doctors indulge in food outside their regular meal rotation. Three physicians shared what they reach for when they want a snack or treat.
For more specialized guidance, speak with your own medical provider.
What an Obesity Medicine Specialist Snacks On
Dr. Susan Wolver, director of Virginia Commonwealth University’s Health Weight Loss Program, told USA TODAY she reaches for nuts, cheese or yogurt (if she didn’t already have some for breakfast).
What a Cardiologist Treats Himself To
Dr. Renato Apolito, a board-certified physician in interventional cardiology and cardiovascular disease, told USA TODAY his treats include dark chocolate, dark chocolate-covered almonds and dried fruit with ricotta or honey.
He said this satisfies him “as much as any candy bar.”
What a Gastroenterologist Treats Himself To
Dr. Arun Swaminath, chief of gastroenterology at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, told USA TODAY that treats are typically reserved for Friday nights with his family: “We always get pizza.”
“We’re usually watching a family movie together, and it’s probably the only time my kids see me have any soda,” he said, adding that they only get the mini cans.
Be Your Own Best Detective
Nutrition experts agree that whole foods are best, but access and affordability are major factors in what Americans eat.
More than half of the calories consumed at home by adults and children in the United States come from ultra-processed foods, according to a 2025 analysis from the National Center for Health Statistics.
Even if you think something is healthy, Wolver advises, “Please turn that box around.”
“You need to be your own best detective because they’re trying to sell you a product, and most of the time, if it’s in a box or a bag, it’s not going to be the best product,” she said.
The latest federal Dietary Guidelines also recommend avoiding highly processed “packaged, prepared, ready-to-eat or other foods that are salty or sweet.” This includes products such as chips, cookies and candy with added sugars and salt.
While Apolito finds whole foods “as satisfying as any fast or processed food,” he understands that we all “need a treat occasionally.”
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