You're up watching late-night television when you get the sudden urge to eat something. Should you ignore it or give in?
A lot of us have been taught that late-night snacking equals weight gain. And it usually does: you're more likely to pack on pounds if you make late-night snacking a habit.
But it's not really the timing that leads to weight loss - it's the types of food. Whether it's a little bit of ice cream or some chips, the calories add up.
Luckily, there are simple ways to get late-night snacking under control. Follow these six tips to ward off those late-night cravings.
Pretty simple, huh? This should be your first line of defense since water is naturally calorie-free. Many times, that feeling of hunger we have is just plain ol' thirst, even though it may not seem like it at first. Have a glass of water and wait a few minutes. Chances are that your "hunger pang" will subside. If not, it's time for plan B...
When late-night cravings strike, it's usually for something sweet. Instead of reaching for that tub of Haagen-Dazs, reach for some fruit instead. You'll get the sugar fix you want without all the extra calories and fat that can damage your diet. Some good fruits to try are berries, bananas, mangoes and peaches - all of which are packed with heart-healthy antioxidants.
A common cause for snacking at night is not eating enough throughout the day. If you're used to eating just three huge meals a day, consider breaking up those big portions into smaller, more frequent meals. That way, you stay satisfied and won't feel the need to snack day or night.
Do you really need to be up until 1 or 2 in the morning watching television? Probably not. With the technology nowadays, you can turn off the tube and catch up on your shows at your convenience. And seeing how a majority of Americans aren't getting enough sleep, it wouldn't hurt to knock out a little earlier than usual. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep whenever possible.
Alcohol does double damage on your body. Not only is it filled with empty calories, but it also stimulates your appetite. And with your judgment impaired, you're more likely to indulge on some unhealthy fare. If you plan on drinking, limit your intake and stay far away from food. Your stomach will thank you.
If you usually exercise in the morning, switch things up and hit the gym at night. You'll keep your mind off food and burn calories while you're at it. After a vigorous workout, it's unlikely you'll want to eat anything; you'll more than likely knock out fast (see #4). Ultimately, it's a win-win situation.
Written by Geoffrey Anderson Jr., the editor of MenScience Magazine, a men's skincare blog. He's written about nutrition, fitness and health for the past four years, including a 2-year stint with industry giant eDiets.com. He is based in Miami, Florida.
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