July 15th, 2017 | Updated on March 2nd, 2024
When it comes to snacking within an hour or two of your bedtime, there are a few things to consider: First, research does link late-night calories to the potential for weight gain. One study found that eating right before turning in can make your snooze time more restless, and that sets you up for fatigue and bingeing the next day.
Many think to achieve weight loss, one must not snack, especially after dinner. When late night cravings attack, it can be hard to stay out of the kitchen. Although late night snacking can contribute to weight gain, filling that bedtime hunger pang can still take place while keeping your goals in mind – it may even result in better sleep. Here are 14 best bedtime snacks for weight loss check out.
1. Two slices of white-meat Turkey
Turkey is loaded with sleep-inducing tryptophan and low-fat, high-quality protein. A few slices won’t run you more than 100 calories.
2. An apple with a spoonful of peanut butter
Apples have lots of fiber and a satisfying crunch. The protein in the peanut or almond butter also fills you up without feeling heavy in your stomach.
3. Nonfat chocolate pudding cup
The creamy chocolate pudding goes down easy, but it doesn’t contain the fat that can sit in your belly like a rock all night. One single-serve pack racks up about 90 calories.
4. String cheese
One serving of this snack contains filling protein and fat, so you feel satiated—and it only packs about 80 calories. Cheese also packs the amino acid tryptophan, which may help make you drowsy.
5. A bowl of cereal
All that sugar might leave you too wired to sleep. We’re talking about the whole-grain, complex carb kind (think oatmeal or corn or bran flakes) that’s easy to digest and gives you 200 calories or less per bowl. Pour in a little milk for extra tryptophan and protein.
6. Nonfat greek yogurt
For about 100 to 150 calories, you get the relaxing powers of tryptophan from the dairy, as well as satisfying protein. Plus, yogurt can help calm your stomach, so you’re less likely to wake up with heartburn or indigestion and instead can score a good night’s rest.
7. BABY Carrots
Super-nutritious with lots of crunches, these little orange guys will fill you up long enough so you doze off. And all for four fat-free calories per carrot.
8. A banana
Not only are bananas loaded with satiating fiber and relaxing tryptophan, but they’re the perfect late-night nosh if you’ve already cleaned up your kitchen. You won’t leave behind any dishes or utensils to wash.
9. Popcorn
Yes, everyone’s favorite popcorn. Try switching to plain popcorn instead of those fattening chips. Cook the plain popcorn which takes less than 5 minutes add some spices and salt to taste. You can also use low-calorie cheese to curb that creamy craving.
10. Sandwich
Instead of a cheese grilled sandwich try making a sandwich out of whole wheat bread and stuff it with your favorite veggies and a low-fat cheese. This will let you sleep guilt free.
11. Strawberry Shake
A glass of water into the mixer with 2 tablespoons of yogurt and two to three strawberries makes a perfect protein shake. Healthy in nature also curbs down your late night hunger leaving you light but full.
12. Dried Figs
You can call them natural candies as they taste just like candies. If you have a sweet tooth it’s the best solution for your late night craving. To make it more exciting you can sprinkle some dried figs with light low-fat cheese and dig in.
13. Pretzels
Pretzels especially multi-grain are tasty and really healthy too. These are the best alternative to the chips you end up munching due to late night craving. If consumed with yogurt it boosts up your metabolism.
14. Smoothie cubes
Another alternate for ice- cream lovers. Prepare your favorite smoothies with milk or with yogurt and pour them into ice trays. You can also pour some strawberry or banana shake as they are healthy too. Now you are prepared for that enemy of yours…. yes the late night craving!
Source: womenshealthmag.com, practo.com
