Healthy Late-Night Snacking

By Donna Stark

With the arrival of the year's big holidays usually comes the end to your diet as you know it. So as a precaution, you are thinking of making some simple changes now that will allow you to indulge later, right? You've already cut out the sodas, fancy coffee drinks, and desserts from your diet, but is that enough? What about those late-night snacks you nibble on while watching your favorite TV show? Are you ready to give them up too? Fortunately, you don't have to! But you may need to change what you choose to eat. Here are some tasty options that will satisfy your cravings but won't wreck your diet.

Pretzels

Pretzels are a perfect replacement for that bag of chips you always seem to grab. They will more than satisfy your cravings for a salty crunch but will do so with fewer calories and grams of fat! Pretzels taste great on their own, but if you desire a little more flavor, just add a dollop of mustard or hummus to your plate. 

Fruit

Were you able to fit your five servings in today? If not, help yourself to a piece of fruit or some fruit salad for your late-night snack. Getting that extra dose of amazing nutrition is always a good idea, but what makes your selection of fruit even better is that some promote better sleep! The next time you are at the grocery store, fill your cart with watermelon, tart cherries, pineapple, and strawberries.

Cheese and Crackers

Looking for the crispy crunch and cool smoothness that comes from chips and dip? Reach for some cheese and crackers instead! The combination of protein and carbohydrates supports even blood sugar levels and the production of sleep-friendly chemicals in the brain. Just make sure the crackers are the healthy kind.

Raw Vegetables and Hummus

Want to satisfy your cravings while also giving your immune system a boost? Pull out your chopped vegetables and favorite hummus. Bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and tomatoes are loaded with Vitamin C and taste great when dipped in hummus! And if you wash and cut your vegetables ahead of time, you can pull this snack out and have it ready by the time the commercials are over!

The Right Snack

Sure, there is going to be a lot of decadent food coming your way, but you don't need that as the only reason to enjoy healthier snacks at night. Make this change a permanent one and see how quickly your health can improve!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic Newtown Square, Pa.