Think you should avoid food, especially carbs, at all costs before bed?
If you’re like most people who are trying to lose weight, that’s exactly what you think.
You'll probably be shocked when you find out what I eat before bed but more on that in a minute.
A lot of people think that the kitchen should be ‘off limits’ when the clock strikes 7 PM. As it turns out, that might not be the best approach.
In fact, eating carbs in the evening may do more good than harm ….with a few guidelines of course.
3 benefits of having a little late-night snack
1. Carbs May Boost Blood Sugar Control
When it comes to choosing the best carbs for your pre-bed snack, it’s all about the GI (Glycemic Index).
Opting for food low on the GI scale can actually help you control your blood sugar better the next day.
If you don’t already know, blood sugar control is important as it determines
- how you feel
- your energy level
- and in part, whether you’re gaining body fat.
2. Carbs Combat Hunger
For some people, eating grilled chicken and a salad just doesn’t cut it.
They eat that and then they want more. Some folks just need carbs to feel physically and psychologically satisfied.
If that’s you and you ban all carbs before bed, you may actually wind up taking in more calories from proteins or fats trying to reach this point of satiety.
Eat a few carbs and you’ll get there faster – and in fewer calories.
3. Carbs Combined With Protein Help You Build Muscle
Make sure you combine some carbs with a protein source before bed. This will put you into a more anabolic state than if you had that protein alone.
What does this mean?
It means superior muscle building. And, the more lean muscle you are able to build, the faster your resting metabolic rate will be 24 hours a day and the easier future fat loss will become.
The Types Of Carbs Matter
So this all said, which types of carbs should you eat?
Clearly, digging into a carton of Ben & Jerry’s is not what you want to do to promote a lean body.
To stay lean, your best carbohydrate choices will include foods like:
- Unsweetened oatmeal (which is a great late-night comfort food!)
- Quinoa
- Brown rice
- Baked sweet potatoes
- Toasted Ezekiel bread
Practice moderation, stick to about 20-30 grams of these carbs.
Want a heartier helping? Turn to steamed vegetables or leafy greens instead. These are so low in carbs, you can eat a large serving and still not take in much more than 10-15 grams.
Is it a sweet tooth that’s calling your name? A good plan is one cup of berries. These pack about 15 grams of carbs as well and will also offer an excellent dose of fiber, which further helps with blood glucose control.
Wondering what I eat before bed? I love this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough recipe. Yes, you read that right, I eat this yummy indulgent recipe all the time! I think you'll love it too.
Use this strategy and bring carbs back into the picture before bed. Be smart and rest assured that you’re fueling your body well before you hit the hay.
Yours in Health,
Danette
P.S. Please share this info and I want to hear from you. What's your go-to bedtime snack? Comment below.
