Wellness Wire: Smart Late Night Snacking

Many a time, we’re guilty of sneaking into the fridge late at night if we can’t sleep, or if we need a break from the day. But heading right for the foods that satisfy our sweet tooth will only hold us back from our weight loss goals.

Indulging in late-night cravings doesn’t have to affect your weight-loss goals. That is, if you choose the right foods to eat.

Remember: cravings are temporary and they WILL go away. If you truly are hungry, satisfy your hunger with a healthy snack that won’t ruin your long-term goals.

1. Cottage Cheese: Low-fat dairy products contain protein that will help keep you fuller longer. Cottage cheese is low in fat, calories, and sugars, everything you don’t want late at night.

2. Yogurt: This is another low-fat dairy product that is great as a late-night snack. Top this with blueberries to satisfy your sweet tooth.

3. Handful of almonds or walnuts: Just a handful of this protein rich snack will keep your hunger at bay until you go to bed. Sprinkle with salt to satisfy any craving. This is great to keep you full until the next morning.

4. Spoonful of peanut butter: Sometimes you just need a spoonful of peanut butter. Not only will this satisfy a sweet tooth, it will be enough to fill you up, as well. Protein moves slowly through your digestive tract keeping you fuller longer.

5. Banana: This, too, will help curb any sweet tooth craving you have. The natural sugars from a banana will satisfy a sweet tooth the same as any refined sugars would. All fruits are typically low in calories and high in fiber, perfect for a bedtime snack.

6. Apple: Munch on an apple if you have a sweet or crunchy craving. Spread with a tablespoon of almond butter if this doesn’t do it for you. The high fiber you’ll receive from an apple will keep you feeling full until bed.

7. Whole grain cereal: Whole grain is healthy for you at any time of the day, and contains fiber to keep you fuller longer. Opt for whole grain cereal, a piece of toast, English muffin, or half of a whole grain bagel to keep you full throughout the night.

8. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal sprinkled with Stevia will not only satisfy your sweet tooth, but provide you with a high-fiber snack to keep you full until you go to bed. The warm oatmeal may also help lull you to sleep sooner than you normally would.

Being smart about what you eat late at night is crucial when following a weight-loss regimen. Don’t reverse all your hard work during the day by a temporary nighttime craving!

What’s your favorite healthy late night snack?

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