Craving A Late-Night Snack? This One May Actually Support Blood Sugar

Night Moves: Bedtime snacks usually get a bad rap, but new research suggests that might be a little unfair. Some snacks could actually be good for you. One study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that reaching for pistachios instead of something carb-heavy — like crackers or cookies — may support gut health and help keep your blood sugar steady overnight.

Going Deeper: Researchers tracked about 50 adults with prediabetes for 12 weeks. Some ate pistachios before bed, while others had your typical carb-based snacks. The pistachio group saw an increase in healthy gut bacteria linked to lower inflammation and a more balanced metabolism. Plus, pistachios have a low glycemic impact and help prevent those overnight blood sugar dips that contribute to morning grogginess. 

Takeaway: Choosing pistachios instead of a starchy bedtime snack could be a small change that makes a real difference. A handful before bed packs a nutritional punch and helps keep your gut balanced and your blood sugar steady. 

Bottom Line: If you enjoy a bedtime snack, you don’t have to give it up entirely. Just make it a little greener (and crunchier) with pistachios, and it could benefit your overall health. (These are our favorite, btw.)