Snack Smart And Wake Up Super Refreshed!
Healthy foods lead to healthy sleep. There is some science behind the way we snack and how it affects our sleep patterns. Some of us need that cup of joe for morning get up and go, but what if it’s more about snacking better before bedtime in order to really get some serious zzz’s. So how do you snack smart before bed, so you can wake up super refreshed? While you might be inclined to reach for tryptophan packed turkey, you might want to go for some sweet sleep inducing Tapas.
Something Sweet
For those with a bit of a sweet tooth after dinner, you’ll want to reach for something high in protein that also packs a calcium punch. Healthy low-fat snacks that include protein, calcium, fiber and omega fats often help you get to sleep faster.
Simple Stuffed Apricots
You’ll need:
- ¼ cup goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons almonds, chopped
- 5 apricots
Simply split the apricots in half, stuff each with a generous spoonful of goat cheese, and top with almonds.
Very Berry Yogurt Bowls
You’ll need:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt, vanilla
- ½ cup blueberries, strawberries, raspberries or cherries (don’t be afraid to throw 2 tablespoons of each in)
- 1 tablespoon milled flaxseed (optional omega boost)
Spoon yogurt into a medium bowl. Top with berries and flaxseed. Enjoy!
Sweet & Dreamy Rice Pudding
Cherry and pistachio rice pudding
You’ll Need:
- ½ cup rice pudding
- 2 tablespoons cherries
- ¼ cup cherry compote
- 2 tablespoons pistachios, chopped
Warm the rice pudding in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes. Layer cherry compote and rice pudding in a cup or bowl. Top with chopped pistachios and serve.
Something Savory
For the sleep lover who wants to kick start their brain for bed with something a little more savory - we’ve got you covered! Boost your brain for bedtime with healthy fats and veggies that simply put you in the right state of mind for a full night’s rest.
Healthy Hummus
You’ll need:
- 1 piece of Pita bread
- ¼ cup hummus
- 5 slices of cucumber
- 5 slices of red bell pepper
Simply cut the pita bread into five triangles. Spread each triangle evenly with your favorite hummus. Top with a slice of cucumber and red bell pepper - enjoy!
Peanut Butter Banana Bites
You’ll Need:
- 5 slices of whole grain crostini or toasted pita bread triangles
- 5 teaspoons natural peanut butter, no sugar added
- 1 small banana
Peel and slice the banana. Top each slice of bread with a generous teaspoon of peanut butter. Top with a slice or two of banana and serve.
Protein Packed Bagel Bites
You’ll Need:
- 3 mini bagels
- 6 thin slices of turkey
- 6 slices low-fat monterey jack cheese
- Romell Bhaala
