Are there healthy late-night snacks?
Imagine this: it's late, and a sudden craving strikes. Quietly, you make your way to the kitchen, prepared to indulge. But instead of the usual suspects in your pantry, discover convenient snacks that satisfy your hunger and don’t derail your diet. Curious? Let’s explore the concept of healthy late-night snacks and share some tasty ideas to keep you satisfied until morning.
Crafting the Perfect Evening Snack
When it comes to selecting a late-night snack, it's crucial to avoid falling into the trap of endless bingeing. Instead, focus on choosing options that will keep you feeling full and satisfied throughout the night while also avoiding spikes in blood sugar that can lead to subsequent cravings.
Consider whether your late-night snack meets one or both of the following criteria:
Satiating
Opt for foods rich in protein, fiber, and/or healthy fats, as these nutrients are known to promote feelings of fullness and satisfaction. We mention below a rare source of the healthy fat Omega-7, which has been linked to increased satiety and improved metabolism.
Low Carb
Sugary treats and refined carbs can leave you feeling unsatisfied and even hungrier than you started out. Opting for something low carb will keep your blood glucose levels stable and avoid post-spike hunger.
Three Surprising Healthy Evening Snack Ideas
Looking to shake up your late-night snack routine? Here are three delicious and nutritious options to try:
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Edamame beans: These protein-packed soybeans are not only tasty but also rich in magnesium, which can promote relaxation and better sleep. Sprinkle them with a bit of sea salt for a convenient and satiating snack.
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Macadamia nut butter: This makes for a great spread, dip, or drizzle. But let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a spoon of creamy nut butter straight from the jar? Macadamias are the only nut rich in rare omega 7 fatty acids, linked to improved metabolism and satiety. Macadamias also have 50% fewer carbs than cashews and around 33% less than almonds, making them a perfect evening snack [You can pick your favorite butter here. There are four different flavors to choose from].
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Eggs and mushrooms: Okay, this is a wild card, and yes, it involves a little cooking. But there’s something great about having breakfast foods at night. Instead of munching on sugary cereal, whip up some scrambled eggs with sautéed mushrooms for a protein, melatonin, and fiber-rich late-night snack.
Bonus tip: add a bit of sauerkraut or kimchi for gut health, which is linked to better quality sleep.
Incorporating these healthy late-night snacks into your evening routine can help curb cravings and support your weight loss efforts. With mindful choices, you can enjoy delicious late-night snacks without compromising your health or sleep. Gone are the days of moreish chips and sugary candy bars. Now, you're diving into a world of edamame, macadamias, and sauerkraut - talk about niche snacking goals!
