Do you find yourself awake at midnight with monstrous cravings for yummy snacks? The late night tummy growls happen to the best of us. But it’s not always wise to reach for your favorite bag of crisps.
Eating too salty or too sugary late at night could disrupt your sleep cycle, contribute to weight gain, and leave you feeling too energized to go back to sleep.
To avoid any one of these, it is wise to reach out for healthy late night bites that’ll satisfy your hunger without leaving you feeling guilty. Feast your eyes below on the ultimate list for healthy late night snack ideas!
Veggie Sticks with Hummus
The number one late night snack goes to veggie sticks. It’s not your typical nachos-smothered-in-cheese snack when you think late night bites, but it is a healthy, quick, and delicious alternative.
To be ready for your late night craving, simply cut up your vegetable of choice during the day and keep fresh in the fridge. The best veggies to snack on late at night are stalks of celery and carrots; they are delicious when served with homemade hummus! This snack will help wind you down for sleep while providing you the nourishment your body needs.
Avocado and Crackers
Did you know? Magnesium, which is found in dark leafy greens and avocados, is a great source for getting a full night of shut-eye. Take a box of wheat or whole grain crackers and spread some avocado on them. You can add a sprinkle of pepper or lemon juice for taste!
Peanut Butter Banana Bites
One of the best and healthiest late night snacks to indulge on is banana smothered in your favorite peanut butter spread. This midnight option will satisfy your sweet and salty craving while giving your body fuel for the next day.
Turkey & Cheese Roll-ups
Feeling peckish? Take 2-3 thin turkey slices and your choice of cheese. Roll up the cheese inside each turkey slice and savor the goodness of this late night bite. If you’re missing that crunch factor, you can add some fresh cucumber slices or a piece of whole grain toast!
Dried Fruit & Nut Medley
A healthy late night snack should be light. Nothing too greasy or fat, carbonated, caffeinated, or too sweet or salty should be consumed right before sleeping. With a simple cup of dried (or fresh) fruit and nut mix, you’ll be able to curve your hunger while stocking up on much-needed nutrients.
Greek Yogurt with Fruit or Granola
Perhaps the ultimate healthy late night snack goes to Greek yogurt! Why? Greek yogurt is high in protein and low in calories. Eating Greek yogurt before bed (or if you wake up hungry) is one of the best nutrient-dense snacks you could reach for late at night.
As with all snacks or meals, avoid eating right before you crawl into bed as lying horizontally after eating can disturb digestion and increase chances of indigestion or acid reflux.
The next time you’re craving something delicious and healthy all in one, don’t hesitate to reach for one of the above six late night snack options!