Many of us have heard the adage that eating before bed is not good for our health and can lead to weight gain. However, this is not entirely true. In fact, eating healthy late night snacks can help you sleep better at night.
The Science Behind Late Night Snacks
The quality of your sleep can be greatly influenced by what you eat before bed. Eating the right types of snacks can improve your quality of sleep, as they help regulate your metabolism and balance your blood sugar levels.
When your blood sugar levels are balanced, you are less likely to wake up in the middle of the night feeling hungry or groggy. Eating a well-balanced snack before bed can help you stay asleep throughout the night.
30 Healthy Late Night Snacks
1. Almonds
Almonds are a great late night snack option as they are high in protein and healthy fats, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied throughout the night.
2. Turkey Roll-Ups
Turkey roll-ups are a healthy and easy snack option that can be made in minutes. Simply roll a slice of turkey around a strip of cucumber or avocado for a quick and filling snack.
3. Cheese and Crackers
Pairing a few whole-grain crackers with a small piece of cheese is a great snack option that can help boost your energy levels before bed.
4. Greek Yogurt and Berries
Greek yogurt is high in protein and low in sugar, making it a great late night snack option. Pair it with a handful of berries for a delicious and antioxidant-rich snack.
5. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter
Apple slices with peanut butter provide a delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors. Apples are high in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full throughout the night.
6. Rice Cakes with Hummus
Rice cakes with hummus provide a great source of fiber and protein. The complex carbohydrates in the rice cakes can help regulate your blood sugar levels throughout the night.
7. Cherry Tomatoes with Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a great source of protein, while cherry tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
8. Sliced Bananas with Almond Butter
Sliced bananas with almond butter provide a great source of fiber and healthy fats. The combination of sweet and savory flavors can help satisfy your late night cravings.
9. Edamame
Edamame, or boiled soybeans, are a great source of protein and fiber. They can help keep you feeling full throughout the night and promote a healthy metabolism.
10. Carrots and Hummus
Carrots and hummus provide a great source of fiber and protein. The complex carbohydrates in the carrots can help regulate your blood sugar levels throughout the night.
11. Popcorn
Popcorn is a great snack option as it is low in calories and high in fiber. Opt for air-popped popcorn and avoid adding butter or salt for a healthier snack option.
12. Roasted Chickpeas
Roasted chickpeas provide a great source of protein and fiber. They can help keep you feeling full throughout the night and promote a healthy metabolism.
13. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is high in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation in the body. Opt for dark chocolate with a high percentage of cacao for a healthier and more satisfying snack option.
14. Tuna Salad on Whole Wheat Toast
Tuna salad on whole wheat toast provides a great source of protein and complex carbohydrates. The combination of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber can help promote healthy digestion and boost your energy levels throughout the night.
15. Smoothie Bowl
Smoothie bowls provide a great source of vitamins and minerals. They are also easy to digest, making them a great late night snack option.
16. Avocado Toast
Avocado toast provides a great source of healthy fats and fiber. The combination of healthy fats and complex carbohydrates can help keep you feeling full throughout the night.
17. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes provide a great source of fiber and complex carbohydrates. They can help regulate your blood sugar levels throughout the night and promote a healthy metabolism.
18. Grilled Cheese
Grilled cheese provides a great source of calcium and protein. Opt for whole-grain bread and low-fat cheese for a healthier and more satisfying snack option.
19. Blueberries and Cottage Cheese
Blueberries are a great source of antioxidants, while cottage cheese is high in protein. The combination of sweet and savory flavors can help satisfy your late night cravings.
20. Turkey Wrap
Turkey wraps provide a great source of protein and complex carbohydrates. Opt for whole-grain wraps and fill with turkey, lettuce, and avocado for a healthier and more satisfying snack option.
21. Salmon and Cucumber Sushi Rolls
Salmon and cucumber sushi rolls provide a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. The combination of sweet and savory flavors can help satisfy your late night cravings.
22. Hard-Boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs provide a great source of protein and healthy fats. They can help keep you feeling full throughout the night and promote a healthy metabolism.
23. Turkey Chili
Turkey chili provides a great source of protein and complex carbohydrates. Opt for a low-fat and low-sodium recipe for a healthier and more satisfying snack option.
24. Veggie Sticks with Ranch Dressing
Veggie sticks with ranch dressing provide a great source of fiber and vitamins. Opt for low-fat ranch dressing and a variety of colorful veggies for a healthier and more satisfying snack option.
25. Oatmeal with Fruit
Oatmeal with fruit provides a great source of fiber and complex carbohydrates. The combination of sweet and savory flavors can help satisfy your late night cravings.
26. Cereal and Milk
Pairing a bowl of low-sugar cereal with milk is a great late night snack option. Opt for whole-grain cereal and skim milk for a healthier and more satisfying snack option.
27. Pita Chips and Hummus
Pita chips and hummus provide a great source of fiber and protein. Opt for whole-grain pita chips and a low-fat hummus recipe for a healthier and more satisfying snack option.
28. Chicken Salad on Whole Wheat Toast
Chicken salad on whole wheat toast provides a great source of protein and complex carbohydrates. Opt for a low-fat and low-sodium chicken salad recipe for a healthier and more satisfying snack option.
29. Vegetable Soup
Vegetable soup provides a great source of vitamins and minerals. Opt for a low-sodium and low-fat recipe for a healthier and more satisfying snack option.
30. Cottage Cheese with Sliced Peaches
Cottage cheese with sliced peaches provides a great source of protein and vitamins. The combination of sweet and savory flavors can help satisfy your late night cravings.
Conclusion
Eating a healthy late night snack can help you sleep better and wake up feeling more energized. Opt for snacks that are high in protein and complex carbohydrates, and avoid snacks that are high in sugar and unhealthy fats.