Dinner is supposed to be the last meal of the day and should be consumed timely for proper digestion. But, sometimes things may not go as planned, and your kid might end up feeling hungry even after having their meals. In such a scenario you can't blame your child, as sometimes one can't help but think about eating something yummy, just before going to sleep. This is when some late-night snacks can save you from cooking an extra meal for your child.
However, late-night food does not have to translate into unhealthy munching. Instead of making your child eat some packaged snacks, it's always better to go for healthier options that won't disrupt their sleep and satiate their stomach rumbling. Parents can try to avoid highly caffeinated beverages, and snacks high in sugar and sodium at all costs. Keep reading to find out about some healthy late-night snack options for your kid.
The best way to satisfy your child's late-night cravings is by giving them something light and healthy. Here are some nutritious and fulfilling snack options for your child.
As per Elsevier published in 2022, dark chocolate can be a healthy late-night snack as it has anti-inflammatory effects on the body. Moreover, its anti-diabetic and anti-microbial effects can help a child experience better sleep. It can also have some amazing skin and hair benefits. It may also reduce the susceptibility to various diseases, such as cardiovascular problems, and much more.
As per nutrients published in 2023, eggs are a significant source of protein and carbohydrates. Eggs can also be your go-to late-night snack as they're quite easy to cook and wouldn't take more than 10 minutes. If your child doesn't want to eat a boiled egg on its own, then you may simply add the egg between two slices of toasted bread. This would make a quick egg sandwich that is healthy and easy to digest as well.
If your child wants to eat something spicy yet light, then Fox nuts can be the perfect munching snack to satisfy your child's late-night hunger. All you need to do is put some butter in a pan and then roast the fox nuts in it. For the final touch, you can add some chaat masala along with salt and black pepper. These are light, crunchy, and delightful. Also, you would need just five minutes to prepare this instant snack.
As per the Journal of Food Science and Technology published in 2015, peanut butter is a healthy source of protein and antioxidants for your child. It also has a buttery and creamy texture that can instantly elevate the flavor of a dish. For a late-night snack, you can simply toast a bread slice and spread some peanut butter on top. If your child prefers having a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, then you can prepare homemade jam with some apples beforehand.
Different types of seeds, such as flax seeds, pumpkin, seeds, and much more can be a great munching option for your child because of their multiple health benefits. As per NIH, seeds can help in preventing the chances of vitamin and mineral deficiency in the body. High amounts of antioxidants can have anti-inflammatory effects and help a child experience better quality of sleep.
Some boiled sweet potatoes can be a quick late-night snack for your child. As per antioxidants published in 2022, sweet potatoes are rich in several bioactive compounds. Moreover, they are a good source of fiber and healthy carbohydrates. It can instantly satiate your child's screaming and can be a healthier alternative to late-night junk foods.
Several dry fruits, such as almonds, pistachios, cashews, and figs can be a great munching option, especially at night. Each of these comes with a set of benefits that may enhance both physical and mental health. As per nutrients published in 2017, dry fruits are a powerhouse of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They can help in enhancing immunity and also improve your child's brain health. Besides dry fruits, you can also integrate different seeds into your child’s late-night snack options.
Late-night hunger can be unexpected. However, this doesn't mean that kids can be allowed to eat whatever they want. Parents can arrange for some healthy snack options that do not disrupt their child's sleep while also making them satisfied.