Last night I was hungry and wanted to raid the refrigerator.....sound familiar? We have all been there, was it cravings? No, I couldn't put my finger on just one item. All I new was I was hungry, I know you can spend your points/calories on anything but, are there foods that can disrupt a good sleep?
Some experts say you shouldn't eat after a certain time at night...is this true? The answer is no! But, there are certain rules that can help you get a good nights rest. I am not a chocolate lover, many foodies are so here is your late night chocolate rule. Chocolate contains caffeine and caffeine affects people in different ways. I couldn't have a drink that contains caffeine after 6 pm or I will not be able to sleep until 2 am, on the other hand my son could drink a soda and go to bed. Watch your snacks that contain caffeine.
If your hungry try drinking water first...sometimes your body is just thirsty. This goes for anytime of the day. Our body tends to trick us that way. Ever notice after you consume Chinese food your hungry two hours later? Usually it is because the high sodium and we are actually thirsty.
Now I am probably going to surprise you with this tidbit of research. Do you know how potato chips became a wanted late night snack? The Starch...yep! They elevate levels of tryptophan, an amino acid, in the blood and can help you have more restful sleep.
We tend to sleep better eating potatoes or rice. That makes starchy foods, comfort foods for late night snacking.
Stay away from high fatty foods, even if you have points/calories left over for a treat. Eat it earlier in the day, these foods can disrupt your sleep patterns. The fat will tax your digestive system and may cause indigestion, much like fried and spicy treats.
What to eat besides potatoes (Not potato chips) or rice? The best treat I have found is string cheese and sometimes some healthy baked chips. Why? Well some lean protein is filling and will help you off to dreamland for the night. Try a lean turkey sandwich.
Foodies that have a sweet tooth, there are many ideas in the "Snack Cupboard" but here is a great idea...Buy the Yoplait Yogurt that are desserts, strawberry cheesecake serves your sweet tooth and also your protein. So be creative you can have your cake and eat it too! Sweet Dreams!!
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