Many people believe that snacking before bed can lead to weight gain, but the truth is that it depends on what you’re snacking on. Eating the wrong foods before bed can disrupt sleep and lead to weight gain, but choosing healthy snacks can actually promote better sleep and even aid in weight loss. In this article, we will discuss some of the best snacks that are okay to eat before bed.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is a great snack option before bed. It’s a good source of protein, which can help keep you full throughout the night, and it’s also low in calories. Greek yogurt is also high in calcium, which can promote better sleep by helping the brain use the amino acid tryptophan to produce melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is another great source of protein that can be eaten before bed. It’s also a good source of casein protein, which is digested slowly and can provide a steady supply of amino acids throughout the night. This slow-digesting protein can help keep you full and satisfied and promote better sleep.
Nut Butter
Nut butter, such as almond or peanut butter, can be a great snack option before bed. It’s high in protein and healthy fats, which can help keep you full and satisfied throughout the night. Nut butter is also a good source of magnesium, which can promote better sleep by relaxing muscles and reducing stress.
Hummus and Vegetables
Hummus and vegetables can be a healthy snack option before bed. Hummus is a good source of protein and healthy fats, and pairing it with vegetables can provide valuable fiber and nutrients. Some great vegetables for dipping in hummus include carrots, celery, bell peppers, and cucumber.
Whole-Grain Crackers and Cheese
Whole-grain crackers and cheese can be a satisfying snack option before bed. Whole-grain crackers are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which can help promote better sleep by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Cheese is also a good source of protein and calcium, which can promote better sleep and help keep you full throughout the night.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea can be a relaxing and soothing snack option before bed. It contains antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and promote better sleep. Chamomile tea is also caffeine-free, which can help prevent disruptions to sleep.
Kiwi
Kiwi is a great snack option before bed. It’s high in vitamin C, which can reduce inflammation and promote better sleep. Kiwi is also a good source of serotonin, which can help regulate sleep patterns and improve sleep quality.
In conclusion, snacking before bed can be okay as long as you choose the right foods. Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, nut butter, hummus and vegetables, whole-grain crackers and cheese, chamomile tea, and kiwi are all great snack options before bed. These snacks can promote better sleep, keep you full throughout the night, and even aid in weight loss. However, it’s important to keep portion sizes in mind and avoid high-sugar or high-fat snacks before bed.
