By VINCENT WONG YEW SING
As students, we spend most of the time awake in the wee hours, whether it is assignments or… well mostly assignments. And then comes the need to satisfy that growl from your tummy, reaching out, asking you to 'feed me, feed me'. PLUS, I am pretty sure the majority of the students are looking after their figure which means you cannot just grab a packet of Twisties or Pringles or even pick up the phone to order a delivery from McDonalds. Facing such a dilemma? Well, today is your lucky day because the following are some of the healthier (and tastier) treats you can enjoy after midnight.
Fruit Shake
In need of that sweet sensation while also looking to keep a lean diet? Well make your own fruit shake then. Add a cup of liquid yogurt, add whatever fruit of your choice and add a teaspoon of honey and blend away! To ensure that your beverage is chilled, you may add a few cubes of ice into the mixture or to keep your fruits in the freezer before blending them. Though do remember to keep it down because it is after midnight and blending loudly might keep your neighbours awake.
Popcorn
Make sure to choose the fat-free microwave popcorn. So, even though it is the act of popping open a bag of chips, it is not as bad as it sounds. Popcorn with low calories has enough fiber, whole grain and antioxidant to keep your tummy feeling full. But ensure it is plain popcorns without any flavours. If you do intend to make it taste better, add a pinch of cinnamon for sweetness or lime powder for that special taste. If you are a fan of spicing it up, then a pinch of cayenne pepper is advisable.
Granola Bar
Cereal or snack bar, also known as the granola bar is recommended because of all the nutrients it brings. With all the vitamins a granola bar contains, it can boost your energy level enough to stay up all night and finish your task at hand. As it made out of healthy ingredients (rolled oats, honey, nuts and whatnot), you do not even have to worry about your diet! You can even enjoy two or three of them. But be wary because over consumption of it may cause sore throat. So drink more water while you are at it.
Dark Chocolate
Chocolate, fattening. Dark chocolate, less fattening. In fact, the darker, the better. Because the darker it is, the more cocoa it is made with. And the more cocoa, at least 70% of it, the less sugar it contains. And less sugar after midnight is good. Good, as in you will not gain that much weight. The more cocoa also contributes to it having more antioxidants too, which means less milky than its brighter cousins.
Cheese and Crackers
Cheese and crackers produce complex carbohydrates and protein. With the combination of those two, it will give you the energy to stay awake all night. But make sure to not use cheese slice as it is very, very, very unhealthy. Go to the supermarket and get low-fat cheese. That might probably only cost you less than RM10. While you are at it, make sure to also get 100 percent whole grain crackers. The right ingredient is important because too much protein will make it harder for your body to break the elements down and digest it. Hence, defeating the purpose of you try this out.
Cauliflower
Still feeling a little skeptical on the other choices? Then try something green. No fats. That is what everyone loves to hear. Plus, it is fulfilling enough to be your companion while you stay up all night. Just steam some cauliflower and you are good to go. You could also crush it along with some other veggies for a satisfying yet comforting treat.
Fruit Shake
In need of that sweet sensation while also looking to keep a lean diet? Well make your own fruit shake then. Add a cup of liquid yogurt, add whatever fruit of your choice and add a teaspoon of honey and blend away! To ensure that your beverage is chilled, you may add a few cubes of ice into the mixture or to keep your fruits in the freezer before blending them. Though do remember to keep it down because it is after midnight and blending loudly might keep your neighbours awake.
Popcorn
Make sure to choose the fat-free microwave popcorn. So, even though it is the act of popping open a bag of chips, it is not as bad as it sounds. Popcorn with low calories has enough fiber, whole grain and antioxidant to keep your tummy feeling full. But ensure it is plain popcorns without any flavours. If you do intend to make it taste better, add a pinch of cinnamon for sweetness or lime powder for that special taste. If you are a fan of spicing it up, then a pinch of cayenne pepper is advisable.
Granola Bar
Cereal or snack bar, also known as the granola bar is recommended because of all the nutrients it brings. With all the vitamins a granola bar contains, it can boost your energy level enough to stay up all night and finish your task at hand. As it made out of healthy ingredients (rolled oats, honey, nuts and whatnot), you do not even have to worry about your diet! You can even enjoy two or three of them. But be wary because over consumption of it may cause sore throat. So drink more water while you are at it.
Dark Chocolate
Chocolate, fattening. Dark chocolate, less fattening. In fact, the darker, the better. Because the darker it is, the more cocoa it is made with. And the more cocoa, at least 70% of it, the less sugar it contains. And less sugar after midnight is good. Good, as in you will not gain that much weight. The more cocoa also contributes to it having more antioxidants too, which means less milky than its brighter cousins.
Cheese and Crackers
Cheese and crackers produce complex carbohydrates and protein. With the combination of those two, it will give you the energy to stay awake all night. But make sure to not use cheese slice as it is very, very, very unhealthy. Go to the supermarket and get low-fat cheese. That might probably only cost you less than RM10. While you are at it, make sure to also get 100 percent whole grain crackers. The right ingredient is important because too much protein will make it harder for your body to break the elements down and digest it. Hence, defeating the purpose of you try this out.
Cauliflower
Still feeling a little skeptical on the other choices? Then try something green. No fats. That is what everyone loves to hear. Plus, it is fulfilling enough to be your companion while you stay up all night. Just steam some cauliflower and you are good to go. You could also crush it along with some other veggies for a satisfying yet comforting treat.