Are Bedtime Snacks Really that evil?
All snacks are not created equal. The sad facts are these: the calories derived from munching can add up, while the bedtime snack just seems like the root of all evil. When nighttime hunger strikes and everything looks good (even after you've brushed your teeth) is it really okay to give in to those midnight cravings?
Late-night snacking can result in some not so fun consequences: insomnia, weight gain, heartburn, high blood sugar levels...
We could go on, but where’s the fun in that?
The optimist in us believes you can have some cake and eat it too, proving you give your snack a little thought. After all, healthier choices can lead to a healthier night’s sleep.
"Enjoying a small and nutritious snack could help you fall and stay asleep by stabilizing blood sugar levels," says Lisa Hayim, RD, and Founder of The Well Necessities. "When blood sugar is low, or even too high, we become anxious and irritable, which does not promote sleep at all."
Our sleep experts also suggest that, when you do raid the pantry, you can opt for foods that are high in sleep supportive compounds, including tryptophan, serotonin, melatonin, magnesium, and calcium. You should absolutely stay away from snacks that are high in sugar or extra spicy, though. According to the Mayo Clinic, these types of foods can cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate and often lead to heartburn.
If you’re looking for choices that are under 200 calories, that will actually promote a more restful night’s sleep, you can opt for foods like the following:
Almond Butter on
Whole Wheat Toast
Avocado Toast
Oatmeal
Apples and
Peanut Butter
Greek Yogurt/
Low-Fat Yogurt
with Berries
Crackers
with Cheese
Cereal with
Skim Milk
Pistachios/
Almonds
Baby Carrots
Dried Fruit
Air-Popped
Popcorn
You’ll notice that most of these foods are lower in calories but also offer a higher level of protein to maintain healthy blood sugar levels throughout your sleep.
Registered dietitians agree: tasty late night snacking can still be done—you just need to make sure your digestive system isn’t working too hard to process it all. With these munchies, you'll be sure to go to bed on a full tummy while avoiding the pitfalls of late night snacking.
If you’d like to learn more information about getting your best sleep ever, you can reach out to one of our sleep experts at Brooklyn Bedding.
