Munch Monster

I'm trying really hard to stay on track with my weight loss. Instead of soda, I've been drinking more water and chewing ice when I'm munchy. But it's not working so well. I find that late at night I crave more substantial things, even if I'm not hungry. Like tonight, I'm craving spaghetti. Any advice besides drinking water and chewing ice chips to keep my munching in check? I usually stay up late because I'm working on homework, so going to bed earlier isn't really an option. :P

"I find that late at night I crave more substantial things, even if I'm not hungry" My first reaction is, have you had a substantial supper? a supper with lean protein, whole grains, fruits/veggies/lowfat dairy? Anything like that?  I refer in my mind back to your post about going to school. I'm not clear if you make sure you have a supper meal or anything like it?  If not,please do so.

When I get munchies really bad- I often pop up some Orville Redenbachers "Smart Pop" pocorn. There are only 2 WW points in 7 & 3/4 cups of it!  I know you are likely not doing Weigh****chers but the lower points would mean lower calories to :)   I am bad! I will actually sit there and mow down a whole darned BAG when I need to munch!

My Dr. told me "If you need to munch, how about celery with peanut butter?  It will fill you up and it has lots of fiber and protein".  Just a suggestion. 

Exactly, fiber and protein.  If you're tracking your intake, see if you're getting .8-1g of protein for your desired goal weight (e.g. 140 lbs=112g protein/day).  If not, up your protein.

When I get that 'gotta chew something' and I know I'm not hungry and have been eating the right things, I try chewing a piece of sugar free gum. Keeps your mouth busy with plenty of chewing action. It's helped me a lot. Kathy

Co-sign on the popcorn -- I use dry popcorn in an air popper and top with butter spray.  Good times!

Popcorn - it's been my saving grace for a long time now!

I also want something farily substatial at night.  I often fix an egg (fried in pam) with a small piece of toast or a half an english muffin with real butter. The fat and protien really satiate me and seem to help me sleep better too!