Late night snacking is a fairly common habit, and isn’t just triggered because you’re still hungry.

Sometimes it can be because you’re bored or tired – or even thirsty – but more often than not, the snacks we reach for are quick fixes to satisfy a craving and are hardly ever a healthy option.

Our solution?

Healthy snacks you can eat after 8pm that won’t lead to weight-gain and will still satisfy your late night cravings:

1)      Popcorn

Popcorn is both delicious, and healthier than other foods. It’s high in fat and sprinkling salt, Parmesan cheese or chili pepper flakes are a healthier option than butter.

2)      Avocado

Many people enjoy avocado on toast, but try skipping the bread and just enjoy it on its own, or if you must have bread, try multi-grain bread. Avocado is high in good fats and fibre.

3)      Bananas

Bananas are high in potassium and magnesium and are a natural muscle relaxant which will help you sleep when you head to bed. Their high carbohydrate content will also help you sleep better and will satisfy your hunger craving quickly.

4)      Greek yoghurt

One cup of Greek yoghurt is low in sugar but high in protein so you’ll feel full quicker, without eating too much before sleep. You can also add in banana (with its muscle relaxant properties) or other fruits for some natural sweetness and antioxidants.

5)      Dark chocolate

Chocolate may be frowned on before bed, but just a single square of dark chocolate (70% or more) contains less sugar than normal milk chocolate and is packed full of antioxidants.

6)      Cereal

A small bowl of cereal is packed with fibre which will help you feel full and satisfy any late night hunger cravings. Low fat granola would also give you extra fibre and a slight sweetness.

7)      Hummus

Enjoying a few sticks of carrots or celery with hummus late at night will satisfy any cravings for a crunch and the hummus is full of protein.

8)      Blueberries

A single cup of blueberries is full of fibre, vitamins and antioxidants and makes for a great midnight snack. Pair it with the Greek yoghurt or cereal and you’ve got yourself a healthy snack for after 8pm.

Looking for more nutrition tips? See the Your Plate section on our blog.