Nighttime snacking can be a dieting minefield for many. Even if you've been strict about your eating throughout the day, it's possible to derail your efforts with a fat- and calorie-laden nighttime snack. Fortunately, there are a number of healthy nighttime snacks that will squelch your before-bed hunger pangs.
Dairy Products
Low-fat dairy products such as skim milk, cottage cheese and yogurt are tasty nighttime treats that are beneficial to health. Individuals that eat dairy regularly tend to have stronger bones, better nutrition status and lower rates of colon cancer, the National Dairy Council reports.
Nuts
Fresh nuts such as almonds and Brazil nuts are rich in healthy vitamin E and dietary fiber. Eating nuts regularly can help combat heart disease -- the leading cause of death in the United States -- reports Penny M. Kris-Etherton of Pennsylvania State University. In research found in the September 2008 issue of the "Journal of Nutrition," Kris-Etherton found that nut consumption cuts heart disease risk by more than a third. Opt for raw nuts that don't contain added sodium, sugar or oil.
Produce
Fresh produce such as oranges and tomatoes make nutrient-rich nighttime snacks. Regular consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables can lower your risk of obesity, cataracts and certain cancers. Convenient produce snacks include baby carrots, sliced apples, bananas and celery sticks. Wash fresh produce thoroughly to remove pesticides that may be present on the surface.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal may be a breakfast staple but there's no reason that you can't warm up to a hot bowl of oatmeal at night. Because it's easy to make and ready in a flash, it's a simple way to fill up before bedtime. Even better, the soluble fiber in oatmeal inhibits the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream. Consuming soluble fiber-rich foods like oatmeal regularly can reduce your total and "bad" LDL cholesterol. Choose slow-cooking oatmeal without added sugar to get the most fiber per bite.
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