Jul 15, 2024
By: Kunal Kambli
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We’ve all been there: the clock strikes midnight, and suddenly, the craving for a snack hits with an intensity that's hard to ignore.
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Regular midnight cravings can disrupt sleep, digestion and hormones. Apart from derailing weight loss efforts, they can also increase health risks. Therefore, avoiding them is crucial!
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Here are some practical tips to keep those midnight munchies at bay, ensuring you get a restful night’s sleep without the guilt of a late-night snack attack.
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Starting with the obvious, ensure you are getting adequate nutrition from your meals and snacks throughout the day. Skipping meals or not eating enough can lead to intense hunger and cravings later at night.
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Steer clear of high-sugar snacks and caffeine before bedtime. These can disrupt your sleep and provoke midnight cravings.
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Your toothpaste's minty taste can act as a signal to your brain that eating time is over.
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Stay away from watching stimulating TV shows or using electronic devices right before bedtime, as this can keep you active and eventually trigger food cravings.
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Include protein-rich foods like lean meats, eggs, legumes and high-fibre foods like vegetables, fruits and whole grains in your meals. This can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer.
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Establish a calming nighttime routine that doesn’t involve food, but activities such as reading or taking a warm bath. This can help break the association between bedtime and eating.
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Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and have a glass of water before bed. Dehydration can sometimes be mistaken for hunger.
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Practise stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga or deep breathing exercises, as stress can contribute to emotional eating and cravings.
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Out of sight, out of mind — if the snacks are not readily available, you'll be less tempted to indulge in them at night.
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