Are you someone who always finds themselves snacking late at night, even when you’re not actually hungry? Not only can this affect your sleep, but it can also lead to unwanted weight gain and unhealthy eating habits.
Breaking the late night eating habit can be challenging, but by following some of these tips, you can start making progress towards healthier habits.
1. Stay Hydrated
Oftentimes we mistake thirst for hunger, leading us to want a snack late at night. Keep a glass of water handy and drink it throughout the evening. This can help you stay hydrated while also helping to curb any unnecessary snacking.
2. Plan Your Meals and Snacks Ahead of Time
If you know that you often snack late at night, make sure to plan your meals and snacks throughout the day to include plenty of nutrients and energy.
This can help you feel fuller throughout the day, making it less likely that you’ll crave a snack late at night.
3. Avoid Trigger Foods
Everyone has their own trigger foods – foods that they just can’t seem to resist. If you know that there are certain snacks that you always reach for late at night, try removing them from your pantry altogether.
This can help you avoid temptation and start breaking the habit of eating late at night.
4. Identify Your Triggers
Other triggers for late night snacking can include stress, boredom, or even certain activities like binge-watching TV. Try to identify what triggers your late night snacking and find healthier ways to cope with those triggers.
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5. Practice Mindful Eating
Mindful eating involves being present and fully aware of your food choices and eating habits. By practicing mindfulness, you can start to recognize when you’re actually hungry versus when you’re eating out of habit or boredom.
This can help you break the cycle of late night snacking.
6. Keep Busy with Activities
When you find yourself craving a late night snack, try to distract yourself with a non-food related activity. This could be something as simple as taking a walk or reading a book.
Keeping your mind and body engaged can help you avoid snacking and start breaking the late night eating habit.
7. Don’t Skip Meals
Skipping meals can make you more likely to crave a late night snack as your body tries to make up for lost nutrients and energy. Make sure to eat balanced meals throughout the day to help you feel full and satisfied.
8. Brush Your Teeth After Dinner
Brushing your teeth after dinner can help signal to your brain that you’re finished eating for the night. This can help you avoid late night snacking and start breaking the habit of eating late at night.
9. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
If stress and anxiety are the main triggers for your late night snacking, try to create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you unwind and destress. This could be something as simple as taking a warm bath or practicing meditation.
10. Give Yourself Grace
Breaking any habit takes time, so be patient and kind to yourself. If you slip up and have a late night snack, don’t beat yourself up over it. Instead, focus on the progress you’ve already made and keep working towards healthier habits.
