6 Healthy Late-Night Snacks to Curb Your Cravings

The Spread

July 25, 2022

Traditional late-night snacks are enemy #1 to a healthy diet. Whether you're just starting your journey to eating healthier or you're already a veteran in making good food choices, no one is safe from getting an urge to demolish a bag of chips around midnight. It's weird how a friendly old fridge gets those magical powers to draw you to it after the sun goes down. We've all been there. And now is the perfect time we all stop shaming each other for something we all do and try to find a better solution. So, we've consulted a few experts on the subject in the hope of presenting you with a more acceptable option than just quitting the habit. Check out these six healthy late-night snacks to curb your cravings. 

 

#1 Almonds to the rescue

The era of influencers and celebrities has brought us an all-time favorite when it comes to reducing hunger – a bowl of almonds. In addition to providing your body with protein and magnesium, almonds also include the heart-healthy fats essential to your wellbeing. Did you know that almonds are highly beneficial, especially for women, and a bowl of almonds can increase the number of good bacteria in your guts and help your brain function?

You may try roasting them in the oven for a flavorful snack that is toasted and crunchy all at the same time. When selecting almonds for a snack, it is in your best interest to steer clear of kinds that have been salted or flavored. Keep in mind that doing so might compromise the nuts' nutritional profile. Also, diets high in sodium may contribute to poor sleep quality by raising blood pressure and dehydration.

 

A bowl of almonds.
 A bowl of almonds can improve your gut function.

 

#2 Pistachios

There is a good reason why pistachios have become one of the most popular nuts all over the globe. They are rich in melatonin, a substance substantial for falling asleep. Therefore, a few pistachios can be a perfect solution when trouble falling asleep leads you to the kitchen in the middle of the night. In addition to being one of the nuts with the highest concentration of melatonin, they also happen to be one of the tastiest and protein-packed treats that have been turned into an equally popular ice cream flavor. Also, they have great power in weight loss since they can reduce your appetite.

 

#3 Walnuts

Much like almonds and pistachios, walnuts have a high concentration of melatonin, which may assist in the normalization of your circadian cycle. They also include nutrients that result in the creation of serotonin. This is a valuable chemical that enhances sleep and mood that is produced by the body. Like many other nuts, walnuts are definitely one of the superfoods you should be eating more of, or at least included in your diet from time to time. So, if you want to enhance the taste of your late-night snack while increasing its nutritional value, try incorporating walnuts into a nutrient-rich foundation, such as yogurt or oats.

 

#4 Avocado toast

Toast with avocado on top may seem like a straightforward snack option. However, there's a good reason why it's become so often consumed. Avocados are not only popular among millennials because of their delicious flavor. This fruit is also an excellent source of magnesium, which reduces feelings of sleep anxiety. Before you get into bed for the night, this is an excellent approach to lift your spirits and relax your body at the same time.

Save the rest for breakfast

The great thing about avocado toast is that it can be a fantastic breakfast and late-night snack option. Rich in nutrients and good fats, it's a perfect choice to start your day, especially if you expect a busy and exciting day. You might even wonder what to eat on a long, strenuous day like a moving day for example and how best to prepare for it. Professional movers often advise it as a portion of good nutritious food for breakfast on a moving day. In that case, you can take advantage of your late-night cravings to prepare meals in advance for the new morning challenges.

 

An avocado toast.
Avocado toast will give you all the energy you need.

 

#5 Rice cakes

Rice cakes are an ideal choice to fulfill your burning desire for something crunchy at night because of their light texture and airy feel. They are also one of the best healthy late-night snacks you can eat. You may boost the taste and nutritional value of your meal by using ingredients like:

  • nut butter
  • avocado
  • cheese
  • fruit

The possibilities are almost unlimited. Rice cakes are incredibly delicious to eat when you are in the mood for snacking rather than when you are hungry since they deliver a delightful crunch with just a few basic ingredients. Rice cakes are also fantastic for parties.

 

#6 Nut butter

Last but not least – delicious nut butter. It is the absolute royal delicacy of our website, and with a good reason. From breakfast to the midnight snack – it can do it all. On top of it all, it has some amazing benefits professional dietitians swear by. Nut butter can be great for exercise recovery or just keeping your heart healthy. So, spread some nut butter over toast, apples, or rice cakes for a snack that satisfies your need for the protein and nutrients that nuts give while also satisfying your need for something with a smoother consistency. You may make this protein-packed nighttime snack with peanut, almond, or hazelnut butter and finish it off with a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.

 

A jar of peanut butter.
Nut butter is an essential part of any balanced diet.

 

Final thoughts

There are many reasons you might crave food in the middle of the night. Stress, anxiety, depression, menstruation, or imbalanced hormones can all lead you to the kitchen cabinets. It's nothing unusual. However, it can mess up your whole weight loss or exercise results if you're not smart about it. Stay consistent during the night is crucial no matter how healthy you eat during the day. Calorie count doesn't sleep, even if you do. So, it's important to recognize that urge and choose healthy late-night snacks to curb your cravings instead of junk food. That way, you can say you have a balanced diet and look forward to great results.