The Night-Time Nosh

Many of us have given in to it. Once night-time sets in, so does the urge!

How to avoid this pesky habit:

* Assess your intake. Are you eating adequately throughout the day? Skipping and/or going too many hours in-between meals may lead to overindulging in the evening.

* Keep a food journal. If you have to log and count your evening snack calories - you may think twice about wanting to put it in your mouth!

* Change your habits. If you find yourself sitting in front of the television and having a snack at 8 p.m. every night - mix it up. Eliminate the trigger. Instead of watching television, try reading a book, call a friend or put some laundry away.

* Reduce your stress. Okay - that may never happen. However, figure out what causes you to stress eat. A bad day at work? Make time to do something that helps you relax in the evening. Avoid unhealthy snacking as a method for combating stress.

*Are you noshing out of boredom? Determine if you are truly hungry or just “ feeling snacky”. Drink a large glass of water and have a piece of fruit or cut-up veggies. If that doesn’t do the trick - measure a serving out of your desired snack. Avoid eating mindlessly straight from the bag or box in order to control your calories.

Try this relaxing night-time ritual to keep you away from the fridge:

After dinner, head outside for a brisk 10-minute walk in the fresh air. Come inside, take a warm bath and enjoy a hot cup of herbal tea.