Dietitian provides strategies to prevent nighttime snacking

Clinical dietitian Evanna Patliakaka offers guidance on managing nighttime snacking, noting that the habit is often driven by accumulated hunger, fatigue, stress, or routine rather than a lack of willpower.

To reduce late-night cravings, Patliakaka suggests several lifestyle adjustments:

First, maintaining consistent eating patterns throughout the day is crucial. Skipping breakfast or long periods of fasting can lead to intense hunger and cravings for sweets or salty snacks in the evening. It is recommended not to go more than three to four hours without a meal or snack to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Second, ensuring dinner is satiating is vital. Rather than eating a very small meal, a balanced dinner containing protein, fiber, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates can prevent the urge to snack later in the night.