If you are someone who struggles with overconsumption of food at night, or what feels like an uncontrollable sweet tooth before bed, it likely has nothing to do with willpower.
Wearing my health coaching hat, I would first want to know what you are eating for breakfast. What you eat first thing sets the tone for your day. If it falls in line with what we as Americans were conditioned to consume – sugary cereals, toast, and other grain-based breakfasts – this type of meal tends to trigger that blood sugar spike and crash cycle for the rest of the day, and having you craving sweets hours later. Feeling “snacky” around 4-5pm? Experiencing that late afternoon energy slump? These are symptoms of blood sugar mismanagement, and not necessarily “normal.”
It is true that we are supposed to experience a dip in energy later in the day as cortisol (your stress hormone) naturally tapers off, and melatonin (your sleep hormone) simultaneously starts to rise. This is part of your body’s circadian rhythm and therefore a biological signal to start winding down and preparing for sleep. However, it is not supposed to feel as if you can’t function.
What about the relentless need for something sweet at night? I love a small dessert after dinner as much as the next girl, but if it feels like an itch that can’t be scratched, there is probably something deeper going on with your blood sugar.
This is where breakfast comes into play! In order to avoid initiating that blood sugar spike and crash cycle in the first place, it is important that our first meal contains those macronutrients that help manage blood sugar and increase insulin sensitivity: healthy fat and protein. This is why the Empower Bars were created – to provide that quick grab-and-go blood sugar balancing option for busy mornings, early flights, desk drawers, and gym bags. The Empower Bar is chock full of healthy fat from nuts, seeds, superfoods, and contains 12 grams of high-quality protein. With only 2 grams of sugar and 3 grams of net carbs, you will feel satiated, energized, and your blood sugar will be on an even keel!
If this information resonates with you, I would love to send the Empower Bars your way!
