Here is a common predicament that maybe you, too, have found yourself facing.
“I’m trying to cut back on unhealthy desserts, and especially late-night snacking and desserts. What could I snack on instead that would be a healthier option?”
Protein and/or fat-containing foods would be my number one recommendation.
Some ideas for you:
- a can of sardines
- an avocado drizzled with olive oil
- a few slices of turkey/chicken (of course organic, hormone-free, nitrite and nitrate-free would be ideal)
- full-fat cottage cheese
The protein and fat would serve to help provide satiety and a feeling of satisfaction after eating — and hopefully ensure no hunger pangs while asleep (that’s the worst!).
“But what if I want something sweet?”
Ok, I get it. Maybe you’re not in the mood for another savory snack after dinner, and you’ve got a hankering for an actual dessert — but know that you shouldn’t really go for that pint of ice cream calling out your name in the freezer.
If that’s you, consider these healthier alternatives:
- half an apple spread with a spoonful of your favorite nut butter (almond, walnut, cashew, or coconut)
- a protein shake (one ingredient and with no-added sweetener is ideal: hemp, whey, pea, or collagen peptides are some options) — add a handful of berries, frozen cherries, half an avocado (for creaminess and for healthy and filling fats), and/or açai for some additional sweetness that also delivers micronutrients and antioxidants.
- baked apples with cinnamon (slice an apple into thin slices, bake in toaster oven or regular oven sprinkle with cinnamon and melted coconut butter for an extra nutrient-boost)
- yogurt or yogurt-alternatives (topped with a handful of blueberries, raspberries, or sliced figs)
- a cup of sweeter-tasting herbal tea (naturally sweet with no-added sugars, of course, such as: licorice, peppermint, rose-flavored Tulsi, rooibos, cinnamon) — make a latte out of it by adding your favorite milk or milk-alternative (which will also serve to fill you up more and curb any cravings)
If Trying to Cut Back on Late-Night Desserts? Try Out These Healthier Options was helpful, please share this post with a friend so that they too may learn something from reading it.
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Mike is a holistic nutritionist that helps people feel more optimistic about their health and wellness through changes in diet and lifestyle shifts.
He has authored posts and articles featured on MarthaStewart.com, today.com, and iVillage.com.