How to stop the midnight munchies
Post dinner and evening snacking is a common habit for many people. After a long day it can be easy to sit down in front of the tv, relax and reach for some high carb sugary snacks. But, snacking late at night can lead to weight gain and could halter or revert the progress you are making. So, how can we stop the midnight munchies? Here are our top tips:
Figure out your triggers
Why is it you’re reaching for these snacks when you’re not hungry? Is it boredom, stress or habit? Take a look at your routine and figure out at what times it is most tempting to eat these foods. Once you’ve got a clear idea on why it is happening, you can put things in place to stop this. So, perhaps you realise that you crave sugary foods just as you sit down to watch your favourite soap? Instead, why not make yourself a herbal tea or a drink, or delay watching tv for a little while and try reading a new book.
Create a good night time routine
Create and adapt your night time routine. If you mindlessly scroll social media whilst reaching for snacks, try to spend scheduled time away from your phone. Similarly, if you often watch tv for hours without being that invested, the lack of stimulation and interest can lead you to craving snacks. Instead, why not read or spend time doing a more engaging activity. Plan your tv time and avoid watching hours on end, great alternatives can be listening to podcasts, reading or doing a puzzle. Also, work on your sleep schedule, going to bed at a similar time every day can help improve your sleep, use the time before this to unwind and reflect on your day.
Don’t keep junk food in the house
If you’re all settled on the sofa for the night, the likelihood of you going out to the shops to get food is much less, however if it’s in the cupboards then the temptation is there. Not keeping junk food in the house can help stop the late-night snacking as it’s simply a lot less convenient than having to go out and buy it.
Making sure you’re eating enough at meal times
If you’re restricting yourself throughout the day and not getting enough fat in your meals it could lead to you feeling hungry and therefore picking high carb snacks in the evening. Making sure you’re eating plenty of healthy fats and protein throughout the day should lead to you feeling full and not needing to snack.
Eat mindfully
Sitting on your phone or in front of the tv when eating meals has become a popular and bad habit. Consuming your meals whilst not fully concentrating can lead to overconsumption and mean that you don’t feel as full afterwards. Simply taking your time to eat and appreciating the meal can be really beneficial and stop you feeling the need to snack later.
Discover more tips to stop the midnight munchies when you join the Low Carb Program.
