Nighttime snacking getting in the way of your health goals? Check out the tips below to help guide a balanced approach to nighttime snacking.
Identify your triggers. Ask yourself, “Am I hungry?” If the answer is no, see if you can figure out why you feel like eating. Maybe you’re stressed or bored. Instead of eating, do something that will help solve that challenge. A stroll outside, reading a new book, or doing a short meditation exercise can help far more than that snack would.
Distract. Cravings getting the best of you? Is the kitchen calling your name? Try changing it up for 10-15 minutes. Fold some laundry, walk the dogs, or catch up with a friend on the phone.
Rewrite your routine. Many of our behaviors are simply habits. Good news: Habits can be broken! Do you typically wind down by watching TV with a snack? Instead, try choosing a different activity or room to wind down in, or curl up with a cup of your favorite tea.
Give yourself permission. It’s okay to have a bedtime snack, if that’s what your body needs. Just keep it balanced! Portion out your snack in the kitchen instead of taking the package with you. Or try one of these snack combos to keep you feeling full throughout the night.
Pre-prep healthy snacks. Make it easy to grab nutritious options. Try pre-cut veggies with some tasty dip or sliced fruit with nuts or nut butter.