Benefits of a Bedtime Snack

Many people test their blood sugars four times a day - before meals and at bedtime. The bedtime test is to make sure that they have enough glucose on board to prevent low blood sugar during the night. Even if you don't test your blood sugar at bedtime, it is important to include a bedtime snack in your diet plan. Bedtimes snacks can: - prevent low blood sugar during the night - decrease midnight fridge raids - support and stabilize your glucose metabolism while you sleep Some bedtime snack suggestions that will not rocket your blood sugars, include: 1. ½ sandwich made with 1 tablespoon of peanut butter on 1 slice of whole grain bread, with 8 ounces of low fat milk. 2. 8 ounces of low fat yogurt, with 1 slice of whole grain toast - you can ½ tablespoon of peanut butter, too. 3. 1 package of cheese and crackers with 8 ounces of low fat milk. 4. ½ cup of fruit or vanilla ice cream with 1 large graham cracker. Avoid ice creams with caramel, chocolate and nuts. Making a bedtime snack doesn't have to be a production, however remember that it should contain the 3 primary fuel sources: carbs, fats, proteins. Talk to your doctor, Nutritionist or Registered Dietician for more healthy bedtime snack ideas.