It’s 1 a.m. on a Wednesday night, and, naturally, you’re up studying for tomorrow’s midterm, finishing off that lab report, or making some last minute changes to your essay that’s due in about 8 hours. You’re tired, you’re overworked, and, most of all, you’re hungry. So what do you do? What’s easiest of course: you reach for that bag of chips lying around in your cupboard and proceed to demolish the entire thing and pass out. It’s okay; we’ve all been there. Exhaustion and hunger are a deadly duo when it comes to eating; you’re too tired to put even the slightest bit of effort into making something and you’re too hungry to care about what you shove down your throat, as long as it’s edible. But what if late night snacks could be quick and, dare I say, healthy? Despite how far-fetched this idea may seem, it is possible to get your snack fix without binging on junk food and instantly regretting it the next morning. Here are some healthy alternatives to kick your late night munchies to the curb!
Instead of this…
Try this!
1. Sea-Salted Popcorn Instead of Microwave Butter Popcorn
Everyone loves popcorn; it’s an undeniable fact of life. It’s good for every occasion, from a movie with friends to a late night treat. The best about this snack is that you still get to have the same popcorn you know and love, just without all processed butter and salt. Buying healthy lightly-salted popcorn may seem bland, but you easily spice it up with your favourite toppings!
Pro tip: Try drizzling hot sauce and lime juice over your popcorn for a refreshing new flavour with a kick to it.
Instead of this…
Try this!
2. Carrots and Dip Instead of Cheese and Crackers
Cheese and crackers are go to for snackers everywhere, but, when it comes to health, this snack is seriously lacking. While not the worst food in the world, the high amount of calories and carbs in cheese and crackers don’t make them particularly good for you either. To satisfy your need for crunch, try your luck with a plate of baby carrots and you choice of dip to spice it up a bit.
Pro tip: Swap out the traditional ranch dip for hummus, baba ganoush, or honey mustard.
Instead of this…
Try this!
3. Corn Chips and Salsa Instead of Potato Chips
Corn chips and salsa are a great alternative to potato chips because they’re much healthier and just as satisfying, if not more. You kill your salt craving while still getting the crunch you would from the potato chips, without all the bad stuff. The salsa cuts out the saltiness of the chips, so you won’t be reaching for your water every 5 minutes, and it incorporates some extra freshness and flavour. Bonus: They only take about 2 seconds to make. Grab your chips, pour the salsa, and enjoy!
Pro tip: Try opting for organic blue corn chips instead of the regular Tostitos brand chips. You get the same great taste.
Instead of this…
Try this!
4. Nuts and Berries Instead of Chocolate Covered Fruit
While chocolate covered fruits may masquerade as a healthy snack, most of them are excessively processed and jam-packed with sugar. Trade chocolate covered clusters in for a classic nut and fruit mix. The good fats from the nuts and the sweet and salty combo with the dried fruits keep your body full without depriving your sweet tooth.
Pro tip: If you’re craving some extra sweetness, sprinkle in some coconut flakes or dark chocolate chips.
Instead of this…
Try this!
4. Grapes Instead of Sugary Candy
As cliché as it sounds, grapes are nature’s candy. They’re bite sized, they’re sweet, and you can’t put them down once you’ve had a few. Instead of grabbing a bag of Skittles or Smarties, reach for the grapes. They’re less expensive, less sugary, and you can eat as many of them as you want without feeling sick after!
Instead of this…
Try this!
6. Greek Yogurt Instead of Ice Cream
Contrary to popular belief, Greek yogurt can be just as good as regular yogurt (and healthier too!) with minimal effort. Simply add a couple teaspoons of honey, stir well, and voila! The beauty of this snack is that you can dress it up with whatever you like, depending on what you happen to be craving. Throw in some handfuls of fruit or berries for a sweet and simple snack, add granola if you’re craving that crunch, and mix and match as many flavours as your heart desires! You’ll have a healthy and tasty snack in just minutes.
Pro Tip: To really ramp up this classic snack, try creating less common flavours like apple pie using cinnamon, apple chunks, and granola, or coconut cream using shredded coconut, bananas, a dash of vanilla, and coconut oil!
Happy snacking everyone!