down to enjoy our evening, we want something sweet – or a cheeky
glass of wine (or three!). Many people find that this is the hardest habit
to break when they start a new healthy eating plan, barrecore instructors
included (we’re not saints!). But on a positive note, you don’t have
to go hungry, with just a few tweaks to your diet during the day, you
can balance your blood sugar levels so you’re not craving as much at
night. And if you still fancy a nibble, then there are lots of healthy and
TASTY alternatives out there.
Here’s a few tips to get you started…..
Eat little and often during the day
The key to fighting cravings is to balance your blood sugar levels
by eating a small protein rich meal or snack every three to four hours.
Not only have studies found that six mini meals create a feeling of
fullness but also that letting your blood sugar levels get too low
(because you are too hungry), will be accompanied by hunger and a
sudden rush to the sweet shop for that chocolate bar, laden with
high-fructose corn syrup or other sugars. Don’t do it!
Drink Tea
Boil up some water for some comforting herbal tea. It keeps your hands
busy, so you’re less likely to snack on junk food, and the warm water
will fill you up. Clipper Teas (clipper-teas.com) have a great range of
organic teas in unbleached tea bags so they don’t have any harmful
chemicals. After Dinner Mints and Snore & Peace flavours are
soothing enough to curb that sweet tooth.
Go nuts
Fancy something crunchy and sweet? Then take some almonds,
which are full of healthy fat and protein and coat them in a couple
tablespoons of water, then dust with your favorite protein powder.
You can also add mineral rich, Himalayan pink sea salt to give it a
salty/sweet flavor.
Ants on a log
Ever tried celery sticks and almond butter? It’s a great combo and
really filing. To make them a bit sweeter, add some raisins to make
the famous 'ants on a log' snack. Make sure you always have celery
sticks cut up in the fridge too - so you have no excuse but to reach for
something healthy and delicious.
Don't Stock Your Cupboards
This is a sure-fire way to totally eliminate late-night snacking. You
can't eat what's not there, so just don't keep unhealthy foods in
your house. If you go to the supermarket for your weekly shop,
then make sure you don’t go when you are hungry, or you are
more likely to throw tempting treats in to the trolley. This goes for
online ordering as well!
Brush (and floss) your teeth
Nothing will taste nice when mixed with the minty taste of toothpaste
and mouthwash – plus who wants to dirty up their clean mouth by
eating again? Try and brush your teeth straight after your main meal
– it will soon become a habit and sweet things won’t even come into
the equation.
Final note…., if you find yourself desiring snacks nearly every night,
examine whether you are truly hungry, it’s probably more boredom
than hunger!
Before you do anything reach for a glass of water – fizzy or still -
and then wait a little while to see if you are still hungry; thirst often
triggers feelings of hungriness. If you still feel the need to snack, then
paint your nails – you won’t want to smudge your varnish now will
you?
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