Did you know that eating prior to going to bed can lead to weight gain and a bloated, sluggish feeling in the morning? Your metabolism slows down at night so while you’re trying to sleep your body is forced to digest food when it is least efficient, meaning you will store extra calories as fat, especially around your midsection. This is why most of us are tired even after getting a sufficient amount of sleep. Our bodies are busy working when it should be resting and recuperating.
Is Stress the Real Reason Why you Eat Late at Night??
For many of us our late night rendezvous with the kitchen has more to do with living stressful lives. Let’s face it, during this current pandemic when you are told to shelter in place, stay six feet apart and wear a mask, you can’t help but feel a little stressed. Humans are social creatures and this current pandemic has separated us from our friends and loved ones.
Emotional Eating
Emotional eating could also be associated with stress but it can also be a sign of loneliness. Most of us when we are lonely seek out our favorite comfort foods to keep us company not realizing this very same comfort food could become our worst enemy. These foods lack any nutritional value. They are high in sodium, saturated fats and sugar. Another name for it is the Standard American Diet (“SAD”).
When is the best time to eat?
In some European countries, the biggest meal is in the afternoon, why? Because they have the rest of the day and evening to burn off the calories, unlike here in the states, our biggest meal is in the evening, at a time when our body’s metabolism slows down and we burn calories at a much slower rate.
To remedy this problem, try not to eat 2 or 3 hours before going to bed. This advice is especially important if you’re looking to lose weight and look good in those jeans you brought last year but can’t fit into because of your weight gain over the winter. Losing weight is not rocket science, although some people may want you to think it is. You will be pleasantly surprised how easy it is to lose those extra pounds by just taking this simple advice.
What if I have a busy schedule?
I am aware that most of us have very hectic schedules, which means we may not get home until later in the day. Let’s face it, you may not have time to cook your meals each and every day. This is why I am a firm believer in preparing my meals at home. Home meals are usually healthier than meals you buy from restaurants. I would rather grab a home-made meal when I get home than a slice of pizza.
Eat some fruit
Fruits are whole foods and very nutritious. I’m always eating apples, pears, oranges, etc. Fruits are high in fiber and can stave off some of those hunger pains.
Small meals throughout the day
The best way to control your desire at night is to try eating small, healthy meals throughout the day about 3 hours apart. This method of eating will minimize your cravings late at night.
Will I lose weight just by not eating before going to bed?
You may not lose weight, but you won’t gain it either. You will also feel more alert and energetic, which will aid in your body’s ability to burn more calories during the day.
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