Late-night snacks get a bad rap, but sometimes they’re simply necessary. After all, why does your refrigerator have a light inside if you’re not meant to be nosing around in there before bed?
Maybe you work irregular hours, ate dinner earlier than usual, or were more active during the day. Whatever the reason for your midnight munchies, it’s essential you quell your hunger before hitting the hay. Hunger pangs can make it hard to sleep, and contrary to popular belief, a light late-night bite is not automatically harmful to your health. Studies suggest that what you eat is more important than when you eat it, so next time your cravings strike, try reaching for these late-night snacks instead.
Kiwi
If you tend to crave something sweet before bed, stock up on kiwis next time you’re at the store. Kiwis contain serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps manage mood and sleep-wake cycle. Serotonin gets converted to melatonin – the hormone that makes you drowsy – in the brain, helping you fall asleep a little faster.
Banana and Nut Butter
This classic combo is the perfect bedtime treat if you’ve had a long day and want to relax. Bananas contain vitamin B6, tryptophan, and melatonin. Vitamin B6 supports the conversion of tryptophan into serotonin, which, in turn, converts into melatonin. Bananas also contain potassium and magnesium, which may help prevent nighttime muscle cramping and calm nerve activity. Meanwhile, nut butter offers healthy unsaturated fats which will keep you full and satisfied.
Crackers with Cheese and Turkey Deli Meat
If you’re craving something crunchy, fix yourself a lunchbox-style cheese plate. The cheese and turkey offer tryptophan, an amino acid that induces drowsiness. Combining them with carbs will boost serotonin and melatonin production even further.
Popcorn
Popcorn is a whole grain, meaning it will give you complex carbohydrates that provide nourishing and satiating fiber. Plus, studies have found that whole grains encourage insulin production which results in tryptophan activity in the brain.
At The Juice Hive, we take our snacks seriously. Our Emporium is stocked with a wide selection of better-for-you snacks, artisanal foods, cocktail and mocktail kits, and more to satisfy every craving. Shop all of our new merchandise Mon-Fri (8 am-3 pm) and Sat (8 am-2 pm)!
