New Delhi: We live in a world where many people struggle with stress, anxiety and depression. This is accompanied by lack of sleep, metabolic disturbances and, of course, untimely meals that have led to binge eating habits and nighttime food cravings. Midnight hunger pangs, a state in which you feel like eating in the middle of the night because you go to bed too late, is a common phenomenon among people who work night shifts or students preparing for exams and homework late at night.

When midnight hunger strikes, cravings for greasy, fried, sugary, and high-fat foods are common, increasing the desire for pizza or instant noodles. Eating these foods can cause digestive upset, disrupting sleep quality and affecting productivity in the day ahead.

Although midnight hunger pangs and binge eating are known to elongate waistline and increase the risk of obesity, metabolic disorders and abdominal fat, renowned nutritionist Pooja Makhija has some recommendations on how to combat hunger. hunger pangs at midnight, and the answer lies in food.

How to eat well to beat midnight hunger?

Experts believe that having a low-carb or protein snack 30 minutes before bedtime can boost metabolism in the morning, including foods like nuts, seeds, and fruits. The Sleep Foundation recommends a banana sandwich for this purpose and to improve sleep quality as well, and Ms Makhija supports it. She attributes the sleep-enhancing effects of bananas to their potassium and magnesium content, which relaxes muscles and calms nerves.

Tryptophan is also a compound that keeps brain hormones calm and induces sleep. However, for those who do not like bread before bedtime, the expert suggests pot tea – dissolving a teaspoon in a cup of boiling water and drinking it. Plus, it’s one of the best vegetarian sources of vitamin B12 — a nutrient commonly found in animal foods.

Marmite tea is made from extracts of vegetables, spices, celery and yeast. A low-calorie drink, it is rich in protein as well as vitamins B1, B2 and B3.

Disclaimer: The tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or healthcare professional if you have specific questions about any medical topic.