Bedtime Snacks That Help You Burn Fat

Bedtime Snacks That Help You Burn Fat
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Foods high in protein, fiber, calcium and healthy fats will help you to burn fat faster. You need to carefully choose the foods you eat before bed to ensure you're getting the nutrients you need without spiking your blood sugar level. Doing so will ensure your body will continue to burn fat instead of storing it.

Berries

Fiber is essential to weight loss because it takes longer to digest and makes you feel full, controlling your blood sugar and fending off hunger cravings. Raspberries, blackberries and blueberries have the highest fiber content, with 8 g, 7.4 g, and 3.5 g per cup, respectively. Berries are a great bedtime snack for those looking for something sweet without a ton of sugar or fat.

Low-Fat Yogurt

Calcium is considered one of the best minerals for fighting fat, and low-fat yogurt is an excellent source. Without the right amount of calcium, your body will begin to release a hormone called calcitriol. Calcitriol encourages the body to store fat. The more calcium you eat, the less your body will want to store fat. Make sure the yogurt you choose is low in sugar so that you don't spike your blood sugar levels before bed.

Almonds

Almonds contain protein, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Eating a mere handful of 24 almonds will help to satisfy you before bed, ensuring you don't wake up with hunger pains. The combination of protein and fiber will boost your metabolism so that your body can more effectively burn fat.

Avocados

Avocados are a good source of monounsaturated fats. Each avocado contains anywhere from 11 g to 17 g of fiber, making it a filling bedtime snack. Monounsaturated fats are great for your heart and overall health, but the high fat content means you should limit your avocado intake to special occasions rather than making it your standard evening snack.

Turkey

Turkey contains an amino acid called leucine. Leucine helps to protect your muscles during the weight-loss process, forcing your body to seek fat for fuel instead. Turkey is also high in protein and will satisfy you without spiking your blood sugar levels before bed. A couple of ounces of lean turkey before bed will satisfy your hunger and keep you from feeling hungry when you wake up.

References

Article reviewed by Contributing Writer Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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