At the top of the list?
But many people feel hungry before bed, or simply want to enjoy a bedtime snack.
Well, like many things in the nutrition world, its complicated.
nadia_bormotova/GettyImages
Thats because they fail to address someones unique circumstances when it comes to food.
Or maybe you havediabetesand need to maintain stable blood sugar throughout the day.
In that case, a bedtime snack can be helpful.
Of course, if you go to bed hungry, thats not great for your sleep either.
Bedtime hunger may be an indication that youre not eating enough during the day.
Intuitive eatingpaired with flexible nutrition guidelines can help ensure your nutritional needs are being met throughout the day.
Are you satisfied physically and mentally?
Whats breakfast looking like?
Often overlooked,breakfastcan set the tone for meal timing throughout the rest of the day.
However, with practice, your body will likely adjust.
Whats more, you dont have to eat a huge breakfast, especially if youre not feeling it.
Experiment with yogurt or a fruitsmoothieand see how you feel.
What are you eating throughout the day?
These meals can be as simple or elaborate as you want them to be.
Just keep in mind thata chicken salad without carbsor salmon with only roasted veggies probably wont cut it.
A balance of the three macronutrients is important for satiety.
Generally speaking, a complete meal should keep you satisfied for about three hours.
Are you hungry or are you craving something in particular?
First, ask yourself if youre hungry or if youre craving something in particular.
Maybe youre not hungry for a snack or meal, but you really want a piece of chocolate.
Also, the jot down of food you choose for your bedtime meal or snack matters too.
I highly encourage food experimentation while letting go of rigid rules, shame, and fear around meal timing.
