To have a late-night snack or pass? That’s the question that my husband and I have been debating for years!

Recently, he’s been having late-night food cravings more often. But haven’t we all been told that it’s bad to eat before sleep because it’ll lead to weight gain? On the other hand, I’ve also heard that eating before bed is perfectly fine and can actually lead to weight loss!

So which of the two is true? There’s research to support both sides.

The biggest reason not to eat before bed is the fact that it can lead to unhealthy eating habits. Studies have shown that people who eat before bed are more likely to gain weight, simply because it means extra calories. Eating before bed could also disrupt when you usually eat.

On the flip side, for some people, eating before bed can help them curb nighttime eating and lose weight. By having a structured snack after dinner instead of continually “grazing,” these individuals can help manage their appetite and prevent overeating.

At the end of the day, it’s perfectly fine to have a light snack before bed. For an alternative to traditional desserts and junk food, consider snacking on berries, nuts, or dark chocolate squares.

Happy snacking!

By Diane Alavie, BSc. Phm.