Have you ever found yourself wide awake in the middle of the night, inexplicably craving something sweet or salty? Or maybe you've awoken to the siren call of a warm, gooey slice of pizza, beckoning you to indulge in all its greasy glory.
But where do these late night cravings come from? Is it simply a matter of hunger, or is there more to it than that? And what about those times when we crave something specific, like a specific type of food or flavour? Is there any rhyme or reason to these cravings, or are they just random desires that come out of nowhere?
So many questions, and yet, so few answers. But one thing is for sure - late night cravings can be a curious and mysterious beast, one that continues to fascinate and intrigue us all.
But fear not! We are here to help you in figuring out if you are really hungry! And if after trying these tips, you still feel hungry, go ahead, listen to your body and eat mindfully. We have also provided you with healthy snacks as your late night cravings fix!
Here are a few things you can try to help cope with late night craving:
- Drink water: Sometimes cravings can be mistaken for hunger, so try drinking a glass of water first to see if that helps satisfy your craving.
- Find alternative ways to cope with stress or boredom: Late night cravings can sometimes be a way of coping with stress or boredom. Try finding other ways to relax or distract yourself, such as taking a walk, reading a book, or listening to music
- Keep healthy snacks on hand: Having healthy options available can help you make healthier choices when a craving strikes. Some ideas for healthy snacks include fruits, nuts. Scroll down a bit to get ideas for healthy snacks as your late night cravings fix!
- Get enough sleep: Making sure you get enough sleep can help reduce late night cravings. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to help keep your appetite hormones in balance.
- Distract yourself: Try engaging in an activity that occupies your mind, such as reading, writing, or working on a hobby, to take your focus off of your cravings.
If you do decide to indulge in your craving, try to pay attention to the experience of eating. Eat slowly and savour each bite, and stop when you feel satisfied rather than stuffed.
5 Snack Ideas for Late Night Cravings:
Here are few yummy and healthy snacks for you to try:
- Popcorn - Light and crunchy, popcorn is a tasty and low-calorie snack that can be made in just a few minutes. We suggest eating air popped popcorn, because it is made using just hot air, it is a healthier alternative to popcorn that is cooked in oil.
- Granola- Granola made with natural sugar, fresh fruits, and without preservatives can provide a sweet and healthy snack that's easy to grab and go. Granolas come in various flavours, among those are Double Chocolate, Mocha Hazelnut, Orange Hazelnut & Dark Chocolate and Rose Almond.
- Yogurt - A small serving of yogurt can provide a good source of protein and calcium, and can be topped with your favourite fruits or granola or nuts for added flavour and crunch.
- Nuts - A small handful of nuts, such as almonds or cashews, can provide a satisfying crunch and a good source of protein and healthy fats. Enjoy your nuts while being mindful of portion sizes.
- Cheese and crackers –Pairing a few crackers with a slice of cheese can provide a simple and satisfying snack that's easy to put together.
The Bottom Line
Late night cravings can be a tricky and mysterious phenomenon, but there are ways to manage them. Determining if you are truly hungry or if it's just a craving is important. Practicing hunger awareness and mindfulness can help you understand the difference between the two. Additionally, try incorporating healthy snacks and recipes into your routine to combat late night cravings and still satisfy your taste buds. Remember, it's okay to indulge in your cravings occasionally, but it's important to maintain a balanced and healthy diet overall.