Late night cravings

juliekay0824
juliekay0824 Posts: 7
edited November 10 in Health and Weight Loss
Hello everyone I'm julie

So I've decided to loose weight this year and I've been doing great since the new year (2 weeks now). I've lost 4 pounds in 2 weeks. I've been meeting my calorie goals almost everyday but my struggle is I get really hungry about 2-3 hours after I eat dinner. I know that I'm not supposed to eat 3 hours before I go to bed.. But sometimes I can't help it and I eat a snack. How can I stop these night cravings? Help?

Replies

  • queenliz99
    queenliz99 Posts: 15,317 Member
    edited January 2015
    When eating and logging your meals, try to leave some extra calories at the end of the day for a snack. There is nothing wrong late night snacking as long as it fits in your calorie allotment :)

    BTW Good job on losing your first 4 pounds!!
  • Thank you!
  • elphie754
    elphie754 Posts: 7,574 Member
    Hello everyone I'm julie

    So I've decided to loose weight this year and I've been doing great since the new year (2 weeks now). I've lost 4 pounds in 2 weeks. I've been meeting my calorie goals almost everyday but my struggle is I get really hungry about 2-3 hours after I eat dinner. I know that I'm not supposed to eat 3 hours before I go to bed.. But sometimes I can't help it and I eat a snack. How can I stop these night cravings? Help?

    Why aren't you supposed to eat then? Is it because you have problem sleeping or because of the myth you shouldn't eat before bed? If its because of the myth, there is absolutely nothing wrong with eating before bed.
  • evilqueenT
    evilqueenT Posts: 28 Member
    I leave about 200 calories to use at the end of the day. It's the only way I can do it. I lost about 50 lbs but have recently put about 15 back on and am back to it actively working on getting it back off and yep...that includes leaving room for the late night munchies.
  • vixtris
    vixtris Posts: 688 Member
    Try drinking more water throughout the day, and if you can, more water after dinner, too. Or maybe a hot cup of tea might help?
  • Thank you!
    Thank you!
    elphie754 wrote: »
    Hello everyone I'm julie

    So I've decided to loose weight this year and I've been doing great since the new year (2 weeks now). I've lost 4 pounds in 2 weeks. I've been meeting my calorie goals almost everyday but my struggle is I get really hungry about 2-3 hours after I eat dinner. I know that I'm not supposed to eat 3 hours before I go to bed.. But sometimes I can't help it and I eat a snack. How can I stop these night cravings? Help?

    Why aren't you supposed to eat then? Is it because you have problem sleeping or because of the myth you shouldn't eat before bed? If its because of the myth, there is absolutely nothing wrong with eating before bed.


    I'm ok with my sleeping but I don't eat at night because my metabolism is slower at night.

  • I will try to drink more water... Thanks
  • queenliz99
    queenliz99 Posts: 15,317 Member
    Thank you!
    Thank you!
    elphie754 wrote: »
    Hello everyone I'm julie

    So I've decided to loose weight this year and I've been doing great since the new year (2 weeks now). I've lost 4 pounds in 2 weeks. I've been meeting my calorie goals almost everyday but my struggle is I get really hungry about 2-3 hours after I eat dinner. I know that I'm not supposed to eat 3 hours before I go to bed.. But sometimes I can't help it and I eat a snack. How can I stop these night cravings? Help?

    Why aren't you supposed to eat then? Is it because you have problem sleeping or because of the myth you shouldn't eat before bed? If its because of the myth, there is absolutely nothing wrong with eating before bed.


    I'm ok with my sleeping but I don't eat at night because my metabolism is slower at night.

    Metabolism does not slow down in the evening. This is a myth.
  • Cheriesaurus
    Cheriesaurus Posts: 92 Member
    I found weight watchers hot chocolate the other day lol only bout 35 calories if you just add hot water. Keeps my chocolate cravings away. :expressionless:
  • carrieous
    carrieous Posts: 1,024 Member
    elphie754 wrote: »
    Hello everyone I'm julie

    So I've decided to loose weight this year and I've been doing great since the new year (2 weeks now). I've lost 4 pounds in 2 weeks. I've been meeting my calorie goals almost everyday but my struggle is I get really hungry about 2-3 hours after I eat dinner. I know that I'm not supposed to eat 3 hours before I go to bed.. But sometimes I can't help it and I eat a snack. How can I stop these night cravings? Help?

    Why aren't you supposed to eat then? Is it because you have problem sleeping or because of the myth you shouldn't eat before bed? If its because of the myth, there is absolutely nothing wrong with eating before bed.

    we only burn about 65 calories per hour while sleeping, digestion slows down considerably. its not a myth its science

  • FunkyTobias
    FunkyTobias Posts: 1,776 Member
    carrieous wrote: »
    elphie754 wrote: »
    Hello everyone I'm julie

    So I've decided to loose weight this year and I've been doing great since the new year (2 weeks now). I've lost 4 pounds in 2 weeks. I've been meeting my calorie goals almost everyday but my struggle is I get really hungry about 2-3 hours after I eat dinner. I know that I'm not supposed to eat 3 hours before I go to bed.. But sometimes I can't help it and I eat a snack. How can I stop these night cravings? Help?

    Why aren't you supposed to eat then? Is it because you have problem sleeping or because of the myth you shouldn't eat before bed? If its because of the myth, there is absolutely nothing wrong with eating before bed.

    we only burn about 65 calories per hour while sleeping, digestion slows down considerably. its not a myth its science


    Stop talking about things you don't understand. 24 hrs energy balance is all that matters, not the time of day you eat
  • Thanks guys for your opinions
  • GregRamz
    GregRamz Posts: 13 Member
    Hello everyone I'm julie

    So I've decided to loose weight this year and I've been doing great since the new year (2 weeks now). I've lost 4 pounds in 2 weeks. I've been meeting my calorie goals almost everyday but my struggle is I get really hungry about 2-3 hours after I eat dinner. I know that I'm not supposed to eat 3 hours before I go to bed.. But sometimes I can't help it and I eat a snack. How can I stop these night cravings? Help?

    It's awesome to hear that you're changing to a healthy lifestyle. I'd suggest drinking at least a gallon of water a day. I did that and I'm up to 2 gallons a day. It really helps keep me full when I'm not eating. However, when I am in need of a snack (late at night) I go to the freezer and get some frozen fruit, mainly blueberries. I remember reading somewhere that it's good to eat something cold because your body has to work to turn it to your body's temperature. So you can snack with no regrets!
  • elphie754
    elphie754 Posts: 7,574 Member
    Thank you!
    Thank you!
    elphie754 wrote: »
    Hello everyone I'm julie

    So I've decided to loose weight this year and I've been doing great since the new year (2 weeks now). I've lost 4 pounds in 2 weeks. I've been meeting my calorie goals almost everyday but my struggle is I get really hungry about 2-3 hours after I eat dinner. I know that I'm not supposed to eat 3 hours before I go to bed.. But sometimes I can't help it and I eat a snack. How can I stop these night cravings? Help?

    Why aren't you supposed to eat then? Is it because you have problem sleeping or because of the myth you shouldn't eat before bed? If its because of the myth, there is absolutely nothing wrong with eating before bed.


    I'm ok with my sleeping but I don't eat at night because my metabolism is slower at night.

    Nope. That would be a myth.
  • Unclewigging
    Unclewigging Posts: 3 Member
    Try a casein protein shake as a pre bed snack/meal. Elite makes some tasty ones, cinnamon bun, peanut butter vanilla, etc... Slow digesting, filling, and could be made to fit your macros.
  • adamdlc
    adamdlc Posts: 34
    save yourself some room for something like a casein shake. Slow Digesting protein or like Try peanut butter :) Fats burn slow
  • stevesfoods
    stevesfoods Posts: 19 Member
    I have been giving in to a cup or two of air popped popcorn to make the late night munchies go away. Only 30-35 calories per cup
  • Try a casein protein shake as a pre bed snack/meal. Elite makes some tasty ones, cinnamon bun, peanut butter vanilla, etc... Slow digesting, filling, and could be made to fit your macros.

    Sounds great. Where can I buy those
  • GregRamz wrote: »
    Hello everyone I'm julie

    So I've decided to loose weight this year and I've been doing great since the new year (2 weeks now). I've lost 4 pounds in 2 weeks. I've been meeting my calorie goals almost everyday but my struggle is I get really hungry about 2-3 hours after I eat dinner. I know that I'm not supposed to eat 3 hours before I go to bed.. But sometimes I can't help it and I eat a snack. How can I stop these night cravings? Help?

    It's awesome to hear that you're changing to a healthy lifestyle. I'd suggest drinking at least a gallon of water a day. I did that and I'm up to 2 gallons a day. It really helps keep me full when I'm not eating. However, when I am in need of a snack (late at night) I go to the freezer and get some frozen fruit, mainly blueberries. I remember reading somewhere that it's good to eat something cold because your body has to work to turn it to your body's temperature. So you can snack with no regrets!



    Thanks. I'm really going to start drinking more water. That seems to help a lot of people. I just get so busy at work and at home with taking care of my family that I forget to drink water
  • gothchiq
    gothchiq Posts: 4,590 Member
    Have a big veggie salad with 2 Tbsp of lite dressing at night. This works well for me in terms of satisfaction, and the vitamins and fiber are good for you. :D
  • Ang108
    Ang108 Posts: 1,711 Member
    carrieous wrote: »
    elphie754 wrote: »
    Hello everyone I'm julie

    So I've decided to loose weight this year and I've been doing great since the new year (2 weeks now). I've lost 4 pounds in 2 weeks. I've been meeting my calorie goals almost everyday but my struggle is I get really hungry about 2-3 hours after I eat dinner. I know that I'm not supposed to eat 3 hours before I go to bed.. But sometimes I can't help it and I eat a snack. How can I stop these night cravings? Help?

    Why aren't you supposed to eat then? Is it because you have problem sleeping or because of the myth you shouldn't eat before bed? If its because of the myth, there is absolutely nothing wrong with eating before bed.

    we only burn about 65 calories per hour while sleeping, digestion slows down considerably. its not a myth its science


    Digestion and metabolism are two different things. With all due respect what you say sounds as if everyone has a clock inside themselves that registers when it is night. The human body does not work this way.
    Many of us eat a very large meal right before ( or in my case within 60-90 minutes ) before bed and still lose weight. In my case 55 pounds.
    In order to lose weight you need to figure out what works for you and what is sustainable in the long run. If it is easier for you to stick with a food regimen if you have a late night snack, then by all means build it into your program. You will be presumably doing this for more than just one day and over the long run ( a week, month, several month, years ) it all evens out.
    Good Luck to you !
  • Ang108
    Ang108 Posts: 1,711 Member
    GregRamz wrote: »
    Hello everyone I'm julie

    So I've decided to loose weight this year and I've been doing great since the new year (2 weeks now). I've lost 4 pounds in 2 weeks. I've been meeting my calorie goals almost everyday but my struggle is I get really hungry about 2-3 hours after I eat dinner. I know that I'm not supposed to eat 3 hours before I go to bed.. But sometimes I can't help it and I eat a snack. How can I stop these night cravings? Help?

    It's awesome to hear that you're changing to a healthy lifestyle. I'd suggest drinking at least a gallon of water a day. I did that and I'm up to 2 gallons a day. It really helps keep me full when I'm not eating. However, when I am in need of a snack (late at night) I go to the freezer and get some frozen fruit, mainly blueberries. I remember reading somewhere that it's good to eat something cold because your body has to work to turn it to your body's temperature. So you can snack with no regrets!

    I also read somewhere that eating something really cold does burn extra calories.
    For a very large glass of very icy tea it was something like 1.8 ( yes, less than two ) calories.....:o).
  • muah3iluvzu06
    muah3iluvzu06 Posts: 79 Member
    I like to have a nice hot glass of peppermint tea before bed or an apple and that usually does the trick.
  • I agree with saving some calories for nighttime. Also, I find that having something that has a good amount of fiber but not so many calories is good for nighttime. If you like sweet, try a gala or fuji apple, about 80 calories. For crunchy, maybe a KIND granola bar, about 150 calories. Or for volume, a salad. I used to eat dill pickles when I was hungry, basically no calories and lots of flavor, but they are extremely high in sodium, so not so much anymore. I like heirloom tomatoes sliced in half with a little kosher salt, or a salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and baby carrots for crunch. Or, try some protein for satisfaction, like some lowfat cheese or some greek yogurt. Cabot makes 50% and 75% fat free cheeses that still taste like cheese. Laughing cow soft cheese is also good with some kind of light crackers. They even make a lite version which tastes about the same as regular. Good luck!
  • irene4134
    irene4134 Posts: 14 Member
    Hei Julie ... it's normal to feel hungry 2 or 3 hrs after a meal. ..i make sure I have my dinner an hour before I sleep... if am held up and its a very late dinner I'd rather go for a light meal like a great salad then straight to bed.


    For ur problem I wud suggest u go to bed early to avoid late night eating. .. i also read somewhere that it's not ideal to snack after dinner... but i do and I wish to stop.. but i realise that if I go to bed early I dnt crave...
    Gud luck
  • elphie754
    elphie754 Posts: 7,574 Member
    irene4134 wrote: »
    Hei Julie ... it's normal to feel hungry 2 or 3 hrs after a meal. ..i make sure I have my dinner an hour before I sleep... if am held up and its a very late dinner I'd rather go for a light meal like a great salad then straight to bed.


    For ur problem I wud suggest u go to bed early to avoid late night eating. .. i also read somewhere that it's not ideal to snack after dinner... but i do and I wish to stop.. but i realise that if I go to bed early I dnt crave...
    Gud luck

    Where did you hear that because it is myth.
  • irene4134
    irene4134 Posts: 14 Member
    Myth or no myth it's in health sites. By the way every1 shud stick to what works for them and not crush what works for others. For me it makes sense if I snack healthy on a fruit I lose well but if I over snack I gain... plus there is no reason to stockpile calories at night when u going to sleep... ur body doesn't need them
  • MaggieLoo79
    MaggieLoo79 Posts: 288 Member
    I don't eat before bed either. A lot of times, I just go read in bed to avoid the temptation of a late night snack. Mostly though, I just remind myself how proud I'll be of myself in the morning if I don't give into the snack urge.
  • mymodernbabylon
    mymodernbabylon Posts: 1,038 Member
    If I didn't eat at night, then I would be hungry and therefore my body would need those calories. Eat what works for you and what is sustainable, otherwise you will find yourself binging or stopping what you are doing.
  • GregRamz
    GregRamz Posts: 13 Member
    I also read somewhere that eating something really cold does burn extra calories.
    For a very large glass of very icy tea it was something like 1.8 ( yes, less than two ) calories.....:o).
    Just something to keep in mind
This discussion has been closed.