How do you keep from overeating when tired?

jjhanlon

This is absolutely the most difficult for me. I crave sugary, carbohydrate laden sweets when I'm sleepy. How do you keep from overeating when your body and mind are tired? The hour before bedtime seems to be the worst. I find if I have a later supper (7 instead of 4 or 5) it is harder to stop after dinner. Any tips? (besides getting more sleep) :huh:

Saffyra

I'm the same way. Any time I can just get in bed instead of eat, I do.

Drinking lots of water instead helps too. I usually flavor it with a Propel powder or TrueLemon to give me that sweet taste I'm looking for.

AZKristi

If going to bed is an option, I definitely suggest that. Aside from overeating, lack of sleep can actually have a negative impact on your metabolism. If sleep is not an option, try a quick burst of exercise to get some energy up! Try going up and down a few flights of stairs or take a brisk walk around the block. Or, just do 25 jumping jacks. Sometimes that will give me energy and more willpower!

kadrum

I completely understand. I caved tonight...not only red wine but also 1/2 pack of m&m's. What is my deal???? I go all day and then can't keep it together at night. I swear...if I didn't have a 3 year old, I'd take a Benadryl and knock myself out so I couldn't cheat!!!

Pebble321

Would it help to factor into your daily calories a little snack for the evening?
I find that a few almonds (like 4 or 6) do the trick.

hoosiermama1977

This is always my hardest time of the night. I've had many, many, many days where I've ate well (meaning healthy , not skipping meals, etc..) worked out and ended the day right on target. Then the 9-10 p.m. hour came. And in that one hour I undid the entire day!

The only things I've found for me is herbal teas (decaf of course). I get the flavored ones - it feels like I'm eating something. They have some sleepy time ones that are flavorful. If that doesn't do the trick I just let myself stick with fruits/veggies or sugar free popsicles/jello. Maybe it's not the "right" answer but sometimes I sit and eat 3 sugar free popsicles - probably not the best choice ever since I don't NEED the food but they are 10 calories a piece and take me a long time to eat so that 30 calories probably saved me hundreds!

Pinky67

I'm the same! Very frustrating!!! Would love some tips....

Behavior_Modification

I've found that what I eat for dinner makes a big impact on my cravings and desire to binge for the rest of the night. If I eat a non-balanced dinner with too many carbs, I'm doomed. It seems like then I feel the need to keep eating. But if I have a well balanced meal, the sensation isn't there nearly as strong.

moonbaby12

This is hardest time for me too. If I am really hungry i go for air popped popcorn. If not I try to distract myself-- if my hands are busy this helps (knitting or painting nails, etc.)

When I feel tried and want to eat junk during the day, walking helps a lot if that is an option. If not, even just going outside and drinking lots of water.