The late-night munchies are sure to strike a few hours after dinner and as the day starts to wind down. Whether you had an early dinner or are just plain bored, food cravings can strike later in the night as you get ready for bed or are reading or channel surfing. Instead of reaching for those high calorie junk foods, try some of these 10 healthier options listed below.
10 Healthy Late-Night Snacks
- Multi-grain bread. Toast a piece of multi-grain bread and spread with almond butter or all natural peanut butter.
- Greek yogurt. A one cup serving contains high protein and is low in sugar and can fill you up. You can mix in your own fresh fruit for some sweetness.
- Dark chocolate. Eating a square or two of 70% cacao or greater has less sugar and contains more antioxidants than regular milk chocolate.
- Frozen blueberries. About a cup of these wonderful berries is filled with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. For added texture and sweetness, try a dollop of light whipped cream.
- Bananas. Since bananas contain magnesium and potassium, they are a natural muscle relaxers and with their high carb content they will help keep you fuller and make you sleepier.
- Cereal. A small bowl of low fat granola based or high fiber cereal with skimmed milk will create a full feeling that will get you through your late-night craving.
- Popcorn. Instead of reaching for those high fat potato chips, try popping some popcorn and sprinkle with seasonings such as garlic salt, chili pepper flakes, or Parmesan cheese instead of using butter.
- Hummus. A serving of celery and/or carrot sticks dipped in creamy hummus can satisfy that crunch craving, and hummus is such a great source of protein.
- Crackers and cheese. Try some multi-grain crackers with low-fat cheese for a filling snack that is low in calories and fat.
- Avocado. A few slices of fresh avocado or homemade guacamole with multi-grain crackers or tortilla chips can offer a healthy alternative that is filled with good fat and fiber.
Late-night snacking may not be all that bad for your waistline if you stick to some of these options. A great idea is to have a section of your refrigerator designated for these snacks for easy access and to decrease your chances of reaching for junk food. Stick to the high protein and low carb snacks to fill you up and even help you to sleep better.
More Healthy Diet Tips
How to Stick to Your Diet While Eating Out
10 Simple Changes to Help You Lose Weight
10 Ways to Eat Healthy on a Budget without Compromising on Flavor
Stephanie Brandt is a wife, mother, teacher, and non-profit founder who lives in Pennsylvania with her husband of 17 years and their two sons, three dogs, and Lucky the cat. She and her husband founded a Toiletry Bank in their local area that helps over 50+ families with free toiletries several times a year. This ministry also helped her learn how to coupon so that she could give away even more free toiletries to needy families. In addition to helping others, coupons have helped her family get rid of over $50,000 in debt through coupons, budgeting, and living frugally. Follow along as she teachers you how to live on less at www.debtfreespending.com!
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