You ask, our experts answer…
Dear Nutritionist Natalie,
I have a question on sleep and weight loss. I work 12 hours overnight. You say you have to get enough sleep to lose weight; well, that’s my problem. I don’t get enough sleep because I am always up–either at work or at home. Because I work those hours, my sleeping habits have changed, and I get the urge to snack. It’s like I go on this food binge at night, and it always happens after midnight. Please tell me what I can do to help improve my weight loss. With hard work, I’ve 50 lb. in one year and am planning to continue. I would like to know how I can control my snacking because I miss a lot of meals like breakfast and lunch plenty of times. Help me, please!!!!
— E.A.
Hi E.A.,
Your body requires between 6-8 hours of sleep to help rest and recover. The longer you stay awake, your body is going to look for food to provide energy. It doesn’t matter what time of day you eat as long as you don’t exceed your recommended calories in a 24-hour time period. It’s important that you eat something every 2-3 hours to help stabilize your blood sugar and control cravings. Try snacking on foods that are higher in protein to help you feel satisfied: Greek yogurt with blueberries, string cheese and a few whole grain crackers, baby carrots with hummus, or celery with peanut butter.
Congratulations on your weight loss! Keep up the good work.
Got a question for Nutritionist Natalie? Email her: natalie@lucilleroberts.com.