Top 10 Healthy Late-Night Snacks

If you tuned in to yesterday’s post, then you know I made the decision to override one of my rules for my healthy eating month.  I nixed the notion that it was okay to go to bed hungry.  I understand that for some people this is a crucial step to weight loss, but for me it was becoming very burdensome… especially considering I’m nursing a young baby.

So, in light of that development, I thought I’d share with you a list!

If you must eat late at night, it’s best to eat a controlled portion of something high in protein, low in carbs.  (Oh, and before you resort to munching… make sure the real problem isn’t dehydration.  Drink a big glass of water first or a cup of green tea, and then see how you feel.)

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So here it is.

My Top 10 Healthy Late-Night Snacks!

1) 1/2 cup steamed, salted edamame. (High in protein and fiber and surprisingly YUMMY!  They even sell them in the freezer aisle in a steamer bag.)

2) Low-fat Greek yogurt with honey and slivered almonds. (A nice option if you’re craving something sweet; Greek yogurt is very high in protein and has healthful probiotics that aide your digestion.  Honey is extremely healthful as well!  It is a natural sweetener with anti-oxidant and anti-bacterial properties.)

3) A small bowl of healthy cereal with low fat milk (like Special K Protein Plus!)

4) 1 or 2 squares high quality dark chocolate. (Dark chocolate has less sugar than milk chocolate, and the increased percentage of cacao means an awesome dose of antioxidants!)

5) Celery and peanut butter. (You may have heard this but celery is a calorie-FREE snack!  If you’re craving something crunchy, it’s a great vehicle for peanut butter, which happens to be a great source of protein and healthy fats.)

6) Popcorn!  (A good option if you want to eat a lot and still take in very few calories… that is, if you skip unhealthy add-ins like butter and salt.  Try adding a dash of cinnamon, or cayenne pepper for some kick!)

7) 1/4 cup dried fruit.  (If you’re craving sweet, dried fruit is a way better choice than candy.  It is calorie-dense though, so a controlled portion is a must.  And hey, if you choose dried tart cherries, you get the added benefit of melatonin, also known as the sleep-inducing hormone. Bonus!)

8) Low-fat cottage cheese.  (A great choice!  High in protein and calcium, and low in carbs.)

9) String cheese and a V8 (Low in fat and calories, high in vitamins, just an all-around smart choice.  You know the slogan… coulda had a V8!)

10) 1 piece of fresh fruit (like an apple or pear) + a small handfull whole almonds.  (Nuts are a great way to feel fuller longer due to their protein, fiber, and healthy fats.  And the fruit will help hydrate you for minimal calories.)

I realize none of the above is nearly as fun as eating a roll of raw cookie dough with a spoon.  But at least it’ll get you through til morning.  Stay tuned, I’ve got lots more yummy and healthy tips to share before Turkey Day arrives!

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