Tip for Late Night Snackers

Do you do great with your plan all day and then give in to late night snacking right before bed? I used to all the time. Now, I do usually have cottage cheese with some berries as a late snack. However, while I was in weight-loss mode I tried to avoid eating after dinner (usually after 7PM). I saw this tip on Oprah one day when she had her trainer, Bob Greene on the show. She said she doesn't eat anything at all after a certain time at night. If she gets the urge, she has some herbal tea. I know...herbal tea and Ben & Jerry's are not even in the same ball park. The key she said, is making it a ritual. She has a favorite mug that she uses and she really makes it a special experience.

Since late night munching was my biggest challenge, I gave it a try. At that time my hubby was commuting far away and working late hours. I was used to having dinner with my son and then sitting down and having a snack (usually not a healthy one) with my husband when he finally sat down for his dinner. Instead of sitting down and eating with him, I started having my cup of tea. I still got to spend time with him and catch up on our days. I just traded the unhealthy part of that habit for a better one. Before I knew it, I was looking forward to my "tea time" and didn't even miss the chips or ice cream!

There are so many wonderful herbal teas easily available now. Experiment until you find one that gives you that "Ahhhhh" feeling and trade your late night munchies for healthier ritual. You may come to enjoy it much more than you think!