Satisfying Late Night Food Cravings the Healthy Way

Satisfying Late Night Cravings

It's late at night and you find yourself feeling hungry. Whether you had a light dinner or have just worked up an appetite, late night cravings for food can strike at any time. When those late night hunger pangs hit, it's important to make smart choices to satisfy your craving without overdoing it on calories or derailing any health goals.

Popular Late Night Eats

Certain foods tend to be more popular for late night noshing. Comfort foods like burgers, fries, wings, and nachos are go-to choices for many late night diners. The savory, salty flavors just seem to hit the spot when you want a filling late night bite. Fast food joints and casual dining restaurants that are open late often see an influx of customers stopping in for these crave-worthy treats.

Making Healthier Choices

While fried and sauced indulgences can be hard to resist, there are ways to make healthier picks for late night meals. Going for a grilled chicken sandwich rather than a burger or choosing a side salad instead of fries cuts some calories and fat. Splitting an order of loaded nachos with a friend saves you from overdoing it while still getting to enjoy the flavors.

Satisfying At Home Options

Rather than venturing out late at night, whipping up a snack at home allows you to control ingredients and portions. Keep hummus and cut veggies, hard boiled eggs, fresh fruits, nuts, low-fat string cheese, and yogurt on hand for protein-packed picks me that curb cravings. A whole grain piece of toast with peanut butter or low-fat microwave popcorn also do the trick for lighter fare.

Strategies for Avoiding Overeating Late at Night

It's important not to overdo it just because late night hunger strikes. Put a few guidelines in place to keep your snacking reasonable, whether eating out or at home.

Portion Out Serving

When cooking or dishing out a late night meal, be mindful of portion sizes. Measure out healthy snacks like nuts and cheese to keep calories in check. Split menu items with someone else to avoid overloading your plate.

Skip Second Servings

Even if a late night dish is lower in fat and calories, going back for seconds can send you overboard. Sip water and give your body 20 minutes to feel full effects before considering another helping.

Wait Out Cravings

Sometimes simply waiting out an intense craving for 20 or 30 minutes makes it fade. Distract yourself by catching up on emails, chatting with a friend, or reading for a bit.

Make Late Night Dining Work for You

There's no need to resign yourself to poor choices or overeating just because you crave food late at night. With a few healthy strategies, you can satisfy those after dark cravings in moderation. Be prepared with better-for-you snacks at home and make wise picks when eating out. With a little planning, late night food fits into a balanced diet.

FAQs

What are some of the most popular foods for late night cravings?

Burgers, fries, nachos, wings, and other savory comfort foods are common go-to options when late night hunger strikes.

Is it better to eat out or at home for late night meals?

Eating at home allows you to better control portions and ingredients. But you can make healthier picks like grilled or salad items when eating out late at night as well.

What are some tips to avoid overeating late at night?

Portion out snacks at home, split menu items if eating out, skip second helpings, and wait out intense cravings to avoid overdoing it at night.

Can late night eating be part of a healthy diet?

Yes, if you plan ahead for healthier snacks at home and make wise choices when eating out late, you can satisfy nighttime hunger moderately.