What Not to Eat Before Bedtime – High Calories Foods To Avoid at Night

When it comes to bedtime snacks, choosing the right combination of foods is essential for a good night’s sleep. While some foods can help promote sleep and provide essential nutrients, others can have the opposite effect, interfering with the body’s ability to rest and potentially leading to digestive problems. One of the worst things you can do before bedtime is to consume high-calorie foods that are also loaded with fat and sugar.

Cheeses, fatty pizzas, and sugary cereals, for example, are not the best choices for a late-night snack. These foods contain a high number of calories, which can further contribute to weight gain if consumed before bedtime. Although cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, it is also high in fat, which can interfere with digestion and leave you feeling uncomfortable during the night.

• Avoid high-calorie foods that are also high in fat and sugar before bedtime.
• Choose a light and nutritious snack that won’t disrupt your sleep.
• Avoid foods that are too acidic or high in fiber, as they can cause digestive problems.
• Opt for foods that are low in calories, but high in protein and fiber, such as grapefruit or dark chocolate.

Timing is also crucial when it comes to eating before bed. Eating a heavy meal or high-calorie snack too close to bedtime can make it difficult for the body to relax and fall asleep. It’s best to allow at least two to three hours for digestion before going to bed. If you do feel the need to have a late-night snack, choose something light and easy to digest. A combination of protein and fiber will help keep you feeling satisfied without weighing you down.

High-Calorie Foods to Avoid at Bedtime	Light and Nutritious Alternatives
Cheeses	Grapefruit
Pizzas	Dark chocolate
Cereals	Low-fat yogurt

In conclusion, it’s important to avoid high-calorie foods before bedtime to ensure a good night’s sleep. Instead, opt for lighter, nutritious options that won’t interfere with digestion. By making smart choices about what you eat in the evening, you can promote better sleep and overall well-being.

What Not to Eat Before Bedtime

When it comes to bedtime snacking, it’s important to choose your foods wisely. Eating the wrong thing before bed can interfere with your sleep and even lead to weight gain. Although a high-calorie, fatty snack may sound tempting, it’s best to avoid these types of foods late at night.

One of the worst things you can eat before bedtime is cheese. Cheese is not only high in calories, but it also contains a combination of protein and fat that can be difficult for your body to digest while you’re sleeping. This can lead to digestive problems and even interfere with your sleep. So, if you’re a cheese lover, it’s best to enjoy it earlier in the day rather than right before bedtime.

Another food to avoid before bed is fruit. While fruit is generally a nutritious choice, it can be loaded with calories, especially if you’re choosing high-sugar fruits like grapes or bananas. Additionally, some fruits, like grapefruit, contain capsaicin, which can increase the production of norepinephrine in your body. This can make you feel more awake and alert, making it harder to fall asleep.

Although many people believe that cereals are a great bedtime snack, they can actually be quite high in calories. Most cereals are made from refined grains and contain added sugars, which can disrupt your sleep. Instead, opt for a snack that is lower in calorie and higher in protein, like a handful of nuts, or a small serving of Greek yogurt.

• Don’t eat high-calorie, fatty snacks before bed
• Avoid cheese before bedtime, as it can interfere with digestion and sleep
• Be cautious with fruits, especially high-sugar fruits, as they can be calorie-loaded
• Opt for lower-calorie, higher-protein snacks like nuts or Greek yogurt

12 Foods to Avoid Before Bedtime – High Calorie Foods to Avoid at Night

If you are looking to have a good night’s sleep and maintain a healthy weight, it is important to be mindful of what you eat before bedtime. Consuming certain foods before bed can interfere with your sleep and contribute to weight gain. Here are 12 high-calorie foods that you should avoid before bedtime:

• Pizza: Pizza is not the ideal food to eat before bed as it is loaded with calories and can be quite fatty. The combination of cheese, sauce, and dough makes it a high-calorie and high-fat option.
• Cereals: Many cereals contain high amounts of sugar and can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, which can interfere with sleep. Opt for healthier options like whole grains.
• Grapefruit: Although grapefruit is a nutritious fruit, it is not a good choice before bedtime. It is acidic and can cause indigestion or heartburn, making it difficult to sleep.
• Spicy Foods: Spicy foods can cause digestive problems and can lead to discomfort during sleep. Avoid foods like curry, chili, or hot sauces in the late evening.
• Fatty Foods: Fatty foods take longer to digest and can cause discomfort during sleep. Avoid foods like fried chicken, burgers, or creamy sauces before bed.
• Cheese: Cheese is a great source of protein, but it is also high in calories and can lead to weight gain. It contains the amino acid tyrosine, which can increase levels of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that promotes wakefulness.
• Cruciferous Vegetables: While vegetables are generally considered healthy, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage can cause gas and bloating, which can interfere with sleep.
• Chocolate: Chocolate contains caffeine and can interfere with sleep. It also contains theobromine, a compound that can increase heart rate and alertness.
• Alcohol: While alcohol may make you feel sleepy initially, it can disrupt your sleep cycle and lead to waking up frequently during the night.
• Fried Foods: Fried foods are high in calories and can cause discomfort and indigestion during sleep. Avoid foods like French fries, fried chicken, or onion rings before bedtime.
• Sugary Snacks: Sugary snacks like candy, cookies, or cakes can cause a spike in blood sugar levels and interfere with sleep. Opt for healthier snacks like fruit or nuts.
• High-Calorie Drinks: Avoid high-calorie drinks like sodas, energy drinks, or sweetened beverages before bed. These drinks are loaded with sugar and can cause a surge in energy, making it difficult to fall asleep.

Avoiding these high-calorie foods before bedtime can help you maintain a healthy weight and improve your sleep quality. Instead, opt for lighter, nutritious options that won’t interfere with your sleep or contribute to weight gain.

1. Red Meat

One of the high-calorie foods to avoid before bedtime is red meat. Red meat, such as steak or beef, is acidic and can take a long time for the body to digest. This can lead to digestive problems while you are trying to sleep, such as heartburn or indigestion. Additionally, red meat is loaded with saturated fats and cholesterol, which can further interfere with your sleep. If you want to have a protein-rich dinner, opt for lean proteins like chicken or fish instead of red meat. These options are easier on the digestive system and contain less calories.

Why should you avoid red meat before bedtime?

• It is acidic and can lead to digestive problems
• It is high in saturated fats and cholesterol
• It takes a long time to digest

If you’re craving something savory and want to avoid red meat before bed, there are some better options. For example, cheeses like cottage cheese or Greek yogurt are nutritious and contain protein, which can help keep you satisfied throughout the night. They are also lower in calories compared to red meat. Another great option is a small serving of roasted vegetables, such as cruciferous vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts. These vegetables are high in fiber and provide a good source of nutrients, without the added calories and fats that can disrupt your sleep.

2 Cruciferous Vegetables

Eating the right foods before bed can have a significant impact on your sleep quality. While some foods can help promote sleep, there are others that should be avoided, especially if you’re trying to lose weight. One thing you should avoid eating before bedtime is cruciferous vegetables.

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower are known for their health benefits and high nutritional value. However, they can also cause digestive problems when consumed at night. These vegetables are loaded with fiber, which can interfere with your digestion and make you feel bloated. While fiber is generally good for you, it’s best to consume it earlier in the day, so your body has ample time to digest it before going to sleep.

Cruciferous vegetables are also quite acidic, which can cause acid reflux and heartburn, making it difficult to sleep comfortably. Additionally, these vegetables contain a compound called goitrogen, which can interfere with thyroid hormone production and disrupt your sleep-wake cycle. So, while cruciferous vegetables are nutritious and a great addition to your diet, it’s best to avoid eating them close to bedtime.

3 Pizza

Although pizza is a favorite food for many, it is not the best choice before bedtime. Pizza, especially the popular varieties, can be quite high in calories and can lead to weight gain if consumed late at night.

One of the reasons pizza should be avoided before bed is that it contains fatty cheeses and acidic tomato sauce, which can interfere with your sleep. The combination of high calorie and acidic foods can cause heartburn and indigestion, making it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Pizza is also a food that is loaded with many potential sleep disruptors. The greasy toppings and the fatty crust can cause your body to work harder to digest the food, leading to further sleep disturbances. Additionally, the high calorie content of pizza can make you feel full and uncomfortable, making it harder to get a good night’s rest.

If you’re craving a late-night snack, it’s best to avoid pizza. Instead, opt for healthier options that can help promote sleep, such as a small bowl of high-fiber cereal or a piece of fresh fruit like grapefruit. These foods are not only lower in calories, but they also contain nutrients that can aid in sleep, like norepinephrine, which promotes relaxation and sleepiness.

4 Types of Cheese to Avoid Before Bedtime

When it comes to choosing a late-night snack, it’s important to be mindful of what you eat, especially if you’re trying to watch your calorie intake and improve your sleep quality. Cheese, with its rich taste and creamy texture, is a delightful indulgence that many people enjoy. However, certain types of cheese can be high in fat and calories, making them a less-than-ideal choice before bedtime. Here are four types of cheese you may want to avoid:

1. Processed Cheese: Processed cheese, like the one found in many fast food restaurants and pre-packaged snack foods, is loaded with unhealthy additives and preservatives. It’s also typically higher in sodium and fat, making it a poor choice for a nighttime snack.
2. Blue Cheese: Known for its strong odor and flavor, blue cheese is a type of cheese that’s made from mold. While it can be a great addition to salads or appetizers, consuming blue cheese before bed may not be the best idea. Its high fat content and potential to cause digestive problems can interfere with your sleep.
3. Soft Cheeses: Soft cheeses like brie, Camembert, and goat cheese are delicious and creamy, but they’re also high in calories and fat. Eating these types of cheese before bedtime could lead to weight gain and digestive issues, making it harder for you to fall asleep and get a good night’s rest.
4. Spicy Cheeses: Cheeses that contain spicy ingredients like jalapenos or chili peppers, such as pepper jack cheese, can cause problems for some people when consumed before bed. The capsaicin found in these spicy cheeses can increase the production of norepinephrine, a brain chemical that can increase alertness and keep you awake.

It’s worth noting that not all cheeses are created equal, and some types of cheese can actually be beneficial when eaten in moderation. For example, hard cheeses like cheddar or Swiss cheese tend to be lower in fat and contain more protein, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied throughout the night. Additionally, pairing cheese with a nutritious food like grapefruit or a high-fiber cereal can further enhance its potential benefits and minimize its negative effects on sleep.

When it comes to choosing a suitable bedtime snack, it’s all about finding the right balance between taste, nutrition, and timing. While cheese can be a delicious and nutritious food, certain types of cheese, especially the high-fat and calorie-loaded ones, may not be the best option before bed. Instead, opt for healthier alternatives or enjoy cheese in moderation during the day when you’re more active and have time to burn off the extra calories.

5 Fatty Foods In General

When it comes to maintaining a healthy body, it is important to be mindful of the foods you consume, especially those that are high in calories and fat content. Here are 5 fatty foods that you should avoid or limit in your diet:

1. Pizza: While this popular comfort food may be delicious, it is often loaded with high-fat ingredients such as cheese, processed meats, and greasy toppings. The combination of high calories and unhealthy fats can interfere with digestion and make it difficult for your body to relax and prepare for sleep.
2. Cheese: Although cheese can be a good source of calcium and protein, it is also high in calories and saturated fats. Consuming a large amount of cheese before bedtime can lead to digestive problems and may cause you to feel uncomfortable during the night. If you cannot resist having cheese, opt for low-fat varieties and control your portion size.
3. Dark Chocolate: While dark chocolate is often touted for its potential health benefits, it is still a high-calorie and fatty food. It contains a significant amount of calories and fat, which can further interfere with your sleep if consumed in large quantities before bed. If you crave something sweet, choose a small piece of dark chocolate or opt for a healthier, low-calorie snack alternative.
4. Cereals: Many cereals, especially those marketed as “healthy” or “nutrition-packed,” can be high in added sugars and unhealthy fats. These ingredients can cause a spike in blood sugar levels and interfere with your ability to fall asleep. It is best to choose cereals that are low in added sugars and high in fiber to promote better sleep quality.
5. Spicy Foods: While some people enjoy the heat and flavor of spicy foods, consuming them before bedtime can be a bad idea. Spicy foods, such as those containing capsaicin, can increase body temperature and stimulate the production of norepinephrine, a stress hormone that may keep you awake. If you want to avoid sleep problems, it is best to steer clear of spicy foods during the evening.

6 Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is often considered a healthier alternative to milk chocolate due to its higher cocoa content, which offers potential health benefits. While dark chocolate can be a good snack option during the day, it is best to avoid it before bedtime.

One reason to avoid dark chocolate before bedtime is its high calorie content. Dark chocolate is loaded with calories, and consuming it close to bedtime may interfere with your body’s digestive process. Furthermore, dark chocolate contains caffeine, which can stimulate your nervous system and keep you awake.

Another thing to consider is that dark chocolate often contains high amounts of fat. Although dark chocolate is a good source of antioxidants and other nutritious compounds, it can be quite fatty. Consuming fatty foods before bed can lead to indigestion and potential sleep problems.

7 Ice Cream

Ice cream is a delicious treat that many people enjoy during the summer or as a dessert. However, when it comes to eating ice cream before bedtime, it may not be the best idea. Ice cream is high in calories and contains a lot of sugar, which can lead to weight gain if consumed excessively. Additionally, ice cream is also loaded with fat, which can interfere with the digestive process and make it harder for your body to break down food while you sleep.

One of the reasons why ice cream is not recommended before bedtime is because it contains a significant amount of protein. Protein takes longer to digest than other nutrients, meaning that if you eat ice cream before going to bed, your body will still be working to digest it while you sleep. This can lead to digestive problems, such as bloating or heartburn, which can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling uncomfortable.

Furthermore, ice cream is also often flavored with fruits or other ingredients that can further disrupt your sleep. For example, ice cream with citrus fruits like grapefruit can be quite acidic, which can cause stomach discomfort and may even trigger acid reflux. Additionally, ice cream that contains spicy ingredients like capsaicin can increase the production of norepinephrine, a hormone that can make you feel more awake and alert, further interfering with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep.

In conclusion, although ice cream can be a delicious and enjoyable treat, it is not the best choice for a bedtime snack. Its high calorie and fat content, along with the potential for digestive problems and sleep disruption, make it a food to avoid before bedtime. If you are craving something sweet and creamy at night, opt for a nutritious alternative such as yogurt or a small portion of dark chocolate, which also contains fiber and antioxidants that can promote a good night’s sleep.

8 Grapefruit

Grapefruit is a nutritious fruit that can be a great snack option before bedtime. It is low in calories and high in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Additionally, grapefruit contains a compound called capsaicin, which has been found to boost metabolism and increase the body’s fat-burning process.

Although grapefruit is a good choice for a nighttime snack, it’s important to consider timing and portion size. Eating too close to bedtime can interfere with digestion and potentially cause problems with sleep. It’s also important to be mindful of the combination of foods you eat before bed.

• Grapefruit can be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing and nutritious snack.
• You can also try adding grapefruit slices to a salad for added flavor and texture.
• For a more filling option, consider pairing grapefruit with a source of protein, such as Greek yogurt or a handful of almonds.

In summary, grapefruit is a low-calorie and high-fiber fruit that can be a good choice for a bedtime snack. It contains capsaicin, which may help boost metabolism. Just be mindful of timing and portion sizes, and consider pairing it with a source of protein for a more satisfying snack.

9 Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a nutritious food that many people enjoy eating. However, when it comes to eating before bedtime, there are a few things you should consider. Tomatoes contain a high amount of fiber and are quite acidic, which can interfere with your sleep. The combination of high fiber and acidic content can lead to digestive problems, causing discomfort and keeping you awake at night. So, if you’re looking for a good bedtime snack, it’s best to avoid tomatoes.

Another thing to keep in mind is that tomatoes are loaded with calories. One medium-sized tomato contains about 22 calories, which may not seem like a lot, but can add up if you eat several tomatoes or consume them in the form of sauces or juices. If you’re trying to watch your calorie intake, eating tomatoes before bed may not be the best idea.

While tomatoes can be a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal, it’s best to enjoy them earlier in the day or during dinner rather than right before bedtime. If you’re looking for a lighter nighttime snack, opt for foods like cherries, kiwis, or whole grain cereals that are rich in fiber and lower in calories. These foods can help promote better sleep and provide a good source of nutrients without interfering with your digestion or adding unnecessary calories to your diet.

10 Spicy Foods to Avoid Before Bedtime

While spicy foods can be a great addition to our diet, there are certain times to enjoy them. Eating spicy foods right before bedtime can lead to a number of problems that can interfere with a good night’s sleep.

The main compound that gives spicy foods their heat is capsaicin. This compound can stimulate the digestive system and cause acid reflux, which can be very uncomfortable when you’re trying to fall asleep. Spicy foods also tend to be high in calories and fat, which can further disrupt your sleep by causing indigestion and making you feel too full.

Here are 10 spicy foods that you may want to avoid before going to bed:

• Hot Peppers
• Spicy Cheese
• Spicy Pizza
• Spicy Sausages
• Spicy Fried Chicken
• Spicy Nachos
• Spicy Wings
• Spicy Cereals
• Spicy Dips
• Spicy Curry

These foods are not only loaded with calories, but they can also cause digestive issues and heartburn, making it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. Spicy foods can also increase body temperature, which can further disrupt your sleep cycle.

Although spicy foods can be a good source of protein and fiber, it’s best to save them for earlier in the day so that your body has time to digest them properly. If you’re craving something spicy before bedtime, try a low-calorie and nutritious snack like a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts instead.

11 High-Sugar Cereals

When it comes to cereals, there are many options available on the market. However, not all cereals are created equal, especially when it comes to their sugar content. Some cereals can be loaded with sugar, making them a less than ideal choice for a bedtime snack. Here are 11 high-sugar cereals to avoid:

• Fruit Loops: This popular cereal not only contains a lot of sugar from the colorful fruit shapes, but it also has many potential additives that can interfere with your digestion.
• Cocoa Puffs: Although it may seem like a good idea to have a chocolatey snack before bed, the high sugar content of Cocoa Puffs can leave you feeling awake and restless.
• Lucky Charms: This cereal may be magically delicious, but it’s also loaded with sugar, making it a poor choice for a nighttime snack.
• Corn Pops: Another high-sugar cereal to avoid is Corn Pops. The combination of sugar and corn can further disrupt your sleep.
• Frosty Flakes: While it may be tempting to have a bowl of Frosty Flakes before bed, the high sugar content can interfere with your sleep quality.
• Cinnamon Toast Crunch: This cereal is not only high in sugar but also contains a lot of cinnamon, which can be quite acidic and may cause digestive problems.
• Honey Smacks: With a name like Honey Smacks, you might expect this cereal to be a nutritious option. However, it’s actually high in sugar and low in fiber.
• Fruity Pebbles: Fruity Pebbles may be colorful and fun, but they’re not a great choice before bedtime due to their high sugar content.
• Cap’n Crunch: This cereal not only contains a lot of sugar but also has a high calorie and fat content.
• Apple Jacks: Although apple is in the name, Apple Jacks doesn’t actually contain any real apple. It’s loaded with sugar and artificial flavors instead.
• Golden Grahams: Another high-sugar cereal to avoid is Golden Grahams. The combination of sugar and graham can interfere with your sleep.

If you’re looking for a nutritious and sleep-friendly snack before bedtime, it’s best to avoid these high-sugar cereals. Instead, opt for foods that are high in protein and fiber, as they can help promote better sleep. Some examples of such foods include a small amount of cheese, dark chocolate, or a handful of nuts. Additionally, you can try having a small serving of low-sugar fruits or some whole-grain crackers. Remember, timing is also important – try to have your snack at least an hour before bedtime to allow your body enough time to digest the food and avoid any potential digestive problems that can disrupt your sleep.

What Not to Eat Before Bedtime – High Calories Foods To Avoid at Night

12 Dried Fruit:

Dried fruit may seem like a nutritious snack, but it can be one of the worst foods to eat before bedtime. While dried fruits contain many essential vitamins and minerals, they are also loaded with calories and sugar. They are also quite acidic, which can interfere with the digestive process and potentially cause heartburn or indigestion while you sleep. So, although dried fruit may be a great choice for a snack during the day, it’s best to avoid it before bedtime.

If you’re looking for a healthy and satisfying bedtime snack, there are many other options that you can choose from. One good choice is a combination of protein and fiber, which can help keep you full and satisfied throughout the night. Some examples of good bedtime snacks include cheese and whole grain crackers, a bowl of high-fiber cereal with milk, or a slice of whole grain toast topped with peanut butter.

Fruit	Calories (per 100g)
Grapefruit	42
Apricot	48
Prune	240
Raisins	299

Fruits like grapefruit and apricots are low in calories and can be a great choice for a bedtime snack. They provide a good amount of vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber, which can aid in digestion and keep you feeling satisfied. On the other hand, dried fruits like prunes and raisins are very high in calories and should be avoided before bed.

• Avoid high-calorie and fatty foods like pizza and greasy cheeses before bed. These can be hard to digest and may cause discomfort during sleep.
• Spicy foods that contain capsaicin, like hot peppers, can also interfere with sleep. Capsaicin can increase the production of norepinephrine, a stimulant that can keep you awake.
• Foods from the cruciferous family, such as broccoli and cauliflower, contain a compound called indole-3-carbinol that can interfere with thyroid function. It’s best to avoid these before bed.

Remember, the timing and combination of foods can have a big impact on your sleep quality. It’s important to choose foods that are nutritious, but also gentle on the digestive system. By avoiding high-calorie, fatty, and acidic foods before bed, you can help ensure a good night’s sleep.