The right midnight snack can help you feel less sluggish when you wake but only if you choose the right foods. Here are some healthy choices.
Almonds (and Other Nuts)
It's no secret that nuts make an excellent healthy snack. While almonds are a fabulous choice, almost any nut will do. They're virtually guilt-free. Nuts contain all those wholesome nutrients and come packed with plant-based protein. A 1-ounce serving of almonds has 6 grams of protein!
Almonds also contain tryptophan, a sleep-supporting amino acid that can help you doze off. They also contain magnesium to help relax your muscles. So a handful of these will not only squash any midnight cravings but they'll get you in the right mood for a good night's sleep.
Popcorn
If you're a movie buff, this next midnight snack is perfect. Popcorn is an excellent low-calorie, high-quality carbohydrate made from fiber-rich whole grains. And, as long as you aren't dousing it with butter and salt, it's healthy too!
All that makes it a fabulous choice for a midnight snack. Air-popped is best. If you are going the microwave route, make your own DIY microwave popcorn, which is free from all those chemicals and fats.
A 3-cup serving is only 90 calories and 1 gram of fat. Level up the flavor by dusting it with your favorite herbs or spices. Nutritional yeast can give it a cheesy flavor but with many more nutrients than, say, Parmesan.
String Cheese
Nuts and popcorn are smart choices, but if you're looking to indulge a little with your midnight snack, look no further than cheese -- string cheese. Yes, part dairy product and part children’s toy, string cheese is a great late-night treat.
Similar to almonds, cheese also contains tryptophan to help lull you to sleep. Health it up by enjoying it along with almonds or some raw veggies.
Avocado Toast
Avocado toast may be the reason you aren't a homeowner but at least it isn't keeping you up at night. Foods that are rich in complex carbs with some protein are great midnight snacks. Avocado smashed on top of some whole grain bread is a great example.
Complex carbs release serotonin when digested -- calming you down -- and the protein fills you up. It's a win-win.
Blueberries
If your midnight cravings tilt more towards the sweet side than the savory, blueberries are your jam. But not blueberry jam because that's too much sugar.
Frozen or fresh, blueberries are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Basically everything you need. They also mix well with nuts so you can double up your sleepy-time snack.
Chocolate
Yes, chocolate made the list. But before you start motorboating candy bars at midnight...there are some rules. Not all chocolate is created equal, and most of it will affect your sleep.
Candy bars contain a lot of sugar, tons! Plus, plenty of other additives that are far from ideal for bedtime. It would be best if you stuck to dark chocolate. Whatever one you choose should have at least 70% cacao or more.
Now you know what midnight munchies will not only fill you up but won’t stop you from getting a good night’s sleep. But maybe your bed is? If you are in need of a new mattress, give us a call today. Our bed experts are here to help!