It’s late at night, and you can’t sleep because your stomach won’t stop growling. You need a late-night snack, but you can’t decide what to eat. Before you decide, ask yourself “Am I physically hungry?’’ or is it because you’re feeling anxious, lonely, bored, or depressed?
Unfortunately, we tend to make the worst choices when we are tired or overly hungry. Many of these choices are mostly high in fat and sugar and low in nutrition. In addition, skipping meals or eating too little during the main meals can cause more snacking, too.
If you are eating more than you need at night, that calorie surplus can lead to possible weight gain over time. That’s why late-night snacking has a potential link to obesity and other cardiometabolic diseases, but don’t worry! Late-night snacking isn’t always unhealthy if you choose the right food or food combinations. You can still satisfy late-night cravings while still keeping your weight loss goals on track. Instead of junk food, here are our 10 healthy late-night snack ideas. They are loaded with nutrients, and they can help you sleep better.
1. Yogurt
Yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, and it is a great healthy late-night snack. Just be sure to read food labels before you purchase it. Unfortunately, some flavored or fruit yogurts are high in added sugar. If you want to eat flavored yogurts, just add fruits or nuts to plain yogurt.
2. Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are filled with vitamins and minerals, and it keeps you busy while you’re eating them one by one. Just make sure not to eat more than a handful.
3. Vegetable sticks and cheese
Chop some vegetables, like carrots, celery, cucumber, and bell peppers, into sticks and dip them into cream cheese. You’ll love it! It is super healthy and filling!
4. Popcorn
Air-popped popcorn without salt and fat will keep you full all night because popcorn is one of the most filling foods that are high in fiber and volume.
5. Bowl of berries
When you are craving something sweet to eat at night, you can beat your sugar craving with a bowl of berries. They are loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
6. Oatmeal
A warm bowl of oatmeal can be your go-to healthy late-night snack, just give it a try. Oatmeal is an excellent source of fiber. Cook your steel-cut oats with milk or water, add a tablespoon of maple syrup and sprinkle some cinnamon on top.
7. Fresh fruits and nuts
Fruit and nuts are a great option when you need a quick snack. Both fruit and nuts have a lot of nutritional benefits, including vitamins, minerals, protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Try spreading peanut butter on banana slices, or dip your apple slices in almond butter.
8. Hummus and crackers
Hummus is a classic snack that is filled with fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Pair it up with some crackers for a fun and healthy late-night snack.
9. Carrots and cucumbers
Carrots and cucumbers are very low in calories and are very nutritious. These crunchy healthy late-night snacks are filled with fiber, too.
10. Edamame
Edamame shouldn’t just be for sushi night. It’s packed with plant-based protein and fiber. In addition, it is super delicious and a great snack.
