Let's face it, most late night nibbles are just as much about cravings as they are hunger – which makes striking the balance between hitting the spot and avoiding sleep-disrupting snacks tricky.

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While eating before bed may not be an issue for everyone, those with digestive issues, such as reflux, or who are trying to manage their weight, it's best to stick to lighter options when eating late.

Try to choose food free from stimulants like sugar and caffeine. For a sleep supportive boost, consider including foods with nutrients like tryptophan, magnesium and B vitamins, which support the body's natural sleep processes. Read on for treats packed with said nutrients, sure to satsify cravings and send you off to the land of nod...

1. Instant frozen berry yogurt

Bowl filled with frozen berry yogurt

It's a catch 22 – we get late night sugar cravings, but sugar releases energy into the body which can keep us awake longer. This naturally sweetened instant frozen berry yogurt could be the solution. The combination of fibre from the berries and protein in the yogurt help to slow down the release of sugar, preventing an energy spike. Yogurt also provides calcium which studies have linked to better sleep, as it is required to produce melatonin, the body's sleep hormone.

2. Quick banana ice cream

Banana ice cream topped with flaked almonds

Why not try this creamy banana ice cream for your next movie night? Not only do the banana and milk provide tryptophan to support the body's production of its sleep hormone, but without additional sugar and fat, it's a much healthier ice cream option.

3. Almond butter

Sliced bread topped with almond butter

Almonds not only provides melatonin to support sleep, but are rich in healthy fats, vitamin E and magnesium. If you're struggling with sleep, eat plenty of magnesium-rich foods. This mineral not only helps to convert the amino acid tryptophan into the body's sleep hormone, but also helps it to release GABA – a neurotransmitter that contributes to calming your nervous system.

Try some almond butter spread on a slice of wholemeal toast or apple slices.

4. Blueberry & banana smoothie

Two glasses filled with blueberry and banana smoothie and fresh blueberries in the background

If you like to workout, then enjoying something protein-rich – like this smoothie – before bed can support muscle recovery and repair. Plus, the tofu and banana provide tryptophan which is required to make both serotonin and melatonin to support a restful sleep.

For more protein-rich snack ideas, check out our recipe collection.

5. Chinese-spiced seed mix

Mixed spiced pumpkin and sunflower seeds

Seeds make a healthy snack at any time of day, but come bedtime, they offer some more advantages. Pumpkin seeds are rich in tryptophan and provide 37 per cent of your recommended daily magnesium allowance in a serving. Sunflower seeds offer calcium which supports sleep hormone production.

Next time you're craving something moreish and savoury, why not try this seed mix?

6. Edamame & chilli dip with crudités

Edamame dip with mixed vegetable crudite

Edamame beans are a great low-calorie protein source that still provide tryptophan. This edamame & chilli dip with crudités is a fibre-rich snack that will fill you up without leaving you feeling too heavy.

7. Green eggs

Green vegetables and fried egg on a plate

Not only are these green eggs super-easy to make, but with 18g of protein per serving, you're getting a great dose of sleep supportive tryptophan. The hearty spinach side also offers calcium, zinc and fibre. Another light, sleep-supporting option is our eggs & soldiers, which replaces bread with asparagus.

Enjoyed this? Check out more...

5 tips to improve your sleep hygiene
How to get a good night's sleep
10 foods to boost your brain power

What is your favourite late night snack? Leave a comment below…


This page was published on 16th July 2020.

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All health content on bbcgoodfood.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other healthcare professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local healthcare provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information.

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