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Sometimes, despite eating dinner, you’re still hungry when you’re about to climb into bed, or watch a movie, or you’re awake late at night for whatever reason. It happens. You know that rumor that eating late could cause weight gain? Well, that may not be true. The good news is, it’s usually more about what you eat and how much of it, than what time you’re eating. If you’re choosing the right foods and giving yourself a buffer before you hit the sack, eating late at night isn’t going to make a huge difference, so go ahead and raid your refrigerator...the healthy way! Here’s what to go for:
1. WHOLE GRAINS
The complex carbohydrates contain serotonin, which helps the body relax, and the fiber will keep you full until your next meal. Opt for a slice or two of whole grain bread (with sliced fruit and natural peanut butter), or whole grain cereal and milk.
2. BANANAS
Either on toast with peanut butter (the added protein will keep you full), or on their own, bananas are great snack if you’re hungry at night. Bananas are also a great source of natural muscle-relaxants magnesium and potassium, which will help you fall asleep.
3. COTTAGE CHEESE
Cottage cheese contains casein protein, a slow releasing protein that steadily releases amino acids while you sleep and helps you repair your muscles.
4. Turkey
Turkey contains the amino acid tryptophan, the chemical that makes you drowsy, which (partially) explains why you just want to take a nap after Thanksgiving dinner. Eat a few turkey slices on some rice crackers for a healthy way to ease your hunger before bedtime.
5. CHEESE
Prefer a vegetarian option? Cheese also has tryptophan, so if you need a little push at night, grab a babybell, or a serving of string cheese.
6. AN APPLE AND PEANUT BUTTER
Aside from being plain delicious, the fiber and protein from this combination will fill you up without leaving you too full, and the apple delivers a satisfying crunch.
7. CHERRIES
Cherries are the perfect snack for those with a sweet-tooth and they contain melatonin, which regulates sleeping patterns. They’re also a good source of antioxidants and can repair damage to your cells caused by free radicals.
