Healthy Alternatives To Satisfy Your Midnight Cravings

The persistent habit of sleeping late and binge-watching at night results in unrestricted midnight snacking. From sugary cookies and chips to chocolates, these are easily available in our homes, and hence we tend to nibble on them. Nutritionist Minacshi pointed out a few reasons why we indulge in late-night snacking. She said that our “mindless eating & boredom may be a reason for you to late-night snacks”. She pointed out that such cravings also occur when we do not have any routine or we force ourselves into a strict diet and habits and are bound by restrictions.

She wrote, “The more you fuel your body and mind through the day, the lesser your chances of getting those snack attacks, late-night munchies, and cravings.” Though, there can be a healthy snacking alternative that can satisfy your palate at these odd hours.

A post shared by Minacshi • Nutritionist (MS) & Wellbeing consultant (@nutritionist.minacshi)

Here is a list of foods the nutritionist suggested: chia pudding, roasted chickpeas, puffed savoury, yoghurt, granola bars with sugar, nut butter with toast, eggs, nuts and seeds, dark dark chocolate.

While one can resort to healthy snacking options, this has the potential to disrupt nutrition, health, and well-being goals as well as the discipline we are trying to work on. Therefore, the nutritionist has also shared some effective tips to handle our cravings:

Firstly, she suggested that we identify the triggers, i.e., situations or moments that cause these cravings. Next, one needs to de-stress and unwind at the end of the day as well as workout and stay active.

A post shared by Minacshi • Nutritionist (MS) & Wellbeing consultant (@nutritionist.minacshi)

The nutritionist mentioned that we should plan our meals in advance and include some form of protein in each. We need to make sure that we are not in the habit of skipping meals.

Creating a nighttime routine that will help them calm down, such as meditation before going to sleep, a slow walk on the terrace, is a must. Portioning out our snacks is crucial. Even if we give in to our cravings, we should stock up on healthy options in place of junk foods.

Not only do we need to check on our eating plans, but we also need to keep tabs on our screen time. Minacshi said, “Snacking often goes out of control when you’re binge-watching TV or scrolling, waking you up even more.” Drinking water might also negate the need to eat something at midnight.