When I Am Hungry Late At Night, What Should I Eat That Won't Keep Me Up?

Most nutritionists would say that if you eat your dinner between five and six in the evening, you shouldn't have to eat again that evening. But we are all different and sometimes we will need a little food to boost our energy in the evening (lord knows I do!)

This is especially true for those of us who tend to stay up late into the night.

I've collected a list of tips and some of my favorite 'late evening snacks' below. I hope you enjoy them!

Hungry late at night

I always feel hungry around ten o'clock, and I hate that feeling because I'm trying to shed a bit of extra weight.

If you've ever taken any interest in weight loss, you'll know that a lot of the food you eat later in the day doesn't get used up as energy. Instead, it gets stored in the love handles and thighs!

In addition, all that extra energy you are taking on will make you feel restless at bed time.

The other problem I have is that anything I eat late at night usually makes me feel bloated and uncomfortable. This makes it really hard to get a good night's sleep (I'm a light sleeper too!)

What to eat as a late evening snack

If you're looking for a snack that's light but filling, I'd suggest one of the following:

• Popcorn (not too much salt or butter though!)
• Vegetables. I really love crudités like raw carrots or celery (with cheeky dip in some peanut butter)
• Turkey and low-fat cheese sandwich (on grain bread) 
• Sweet potato fries
• Dates and nuts

I'd also recommend having a long, cool drink of water. Often thirst is mistaken for hunger, so having a glass of water or a cup of herbal tea could put your body at ease.
Green tea or chamomile are great to wash down a late night-snack with.