5 Ways to Reduce Late Night Snacking

Do you ever find that you have great eating habits during the day and then the clock strikes 8 o'clock and you can't stop snacking? If so, you're not alone. I hear this so often from people. Though there isn't always an easy fix, here are 5 things that you can do to help develop a new habit.

1) Don't buy it.

I know it sounds funny but if there is a food you can't resist, don't bring it in your home. If you love ice cream, you can still have it. But, if it's not in your home, you'll have to walk or get in the car to go buy an ice cream cone. The odds are you may skip it.

2) Dish it up.

Instead of eating straight from the pint of ice cream or from a bag of chips, serve yourself in a small bowl. This way you'll decide on your portion ahead of time and you'll be more aware of what you're consuming. The small bowl or dish will also make your serving size look larger. 

3) Sit down to eat.

If you're standing up and eating, the calories still count. By sitting down and being more mindful of what you're eating, you'll be less likely to mindlessly snack. 

4) Move the healthy items to the front and middle of the pantry and fridge. 

Research has shown that we eat what we see. And, even when presented with 5 choices, we typically go back to the first option. We also tend to choose what is in the middle of the fridge and pantry. So, make what you see first the healthy choice.

5) Try some fruit for a snack.

Citrus fruit and berries make great snacks. You'll not only get some natural sweetness but they're packed with antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and minerals. 

If you have a craving for ice cream and chocolate, try making 2 ingredient Chocolate banana “ice cream”. 

Adults and kids like this recipe! When you have a surplus of bananas, peel them and freeze them in a plastic bag so they're ready whenever you have a craving for ice cream. 

1. Take frozen bananas and blend them in your blender or a food processor. You can eat it just like this. 

2. Or, make it chocolate banana “ice cream” by adding some cocoa powder.

Yes, it’s really that easy! And, it's delicious! 

Of course, these are just some ideas. If you need more ideas just for you, let me know. Or, if you have something that works for you and want to share it, send it along and I can pass it along to others.

Healthy snacking!