If you’re up burning the midnight oil or you simply had an early dinner, chances are you might need to satisfy that growling tummy in the middle of the night. A bag of chips, Maggi, some leftover lasagna, cookies, hot chocolate... Those midnight hunger pangs aren’t too difficult to satisfy.

The question is: Will your waistline put up with it?

It’s no secret that eating a big, heavy meal in the middle of the night when your digestion has slowed down will cause weight gain.

That’s why we brought you a list of low-cal, but yummy snacks so you don’t wake up regretting that midnight binge. P.S. The nutritionists approved!

1. Baked Tortilla Chips and Salsa

This crunchy snack with just the right amount of spice makes for an excellent midnight snack. You’ll never believe it’s healthy too.

2. Fruits

Pick a fruit like papaya, banana or apple that is filling, and not too juicy. Otherwise, you might land up waking up in the middle of the night to use the restroom.

3. Hummus With Carrots/Cucumber Sticks

Dip the crunchy veggies into this delicious dip and satisfy those midnight hunger pangs. Go easy on the olive oil to keep it more nutritious and less fattening.

4. Nuts

Munching on a handful of nuts and other dried fruit is probably the healthiest way to combat post-dinner hunger. Avoid candied or highly salted varieties though.

5. Whole Wheat Crackers With Low-Fat Yogurt & Herb Dip

These high-fibre crackers are filling and fat-absorbing too. Enjoy them with a homemade low-fat yogurt with parsley, dill, chives and basil.

6. A Roti Wrap With Veggies or Chicken

A simple spicy chicken or veggie filling in whole wheat roti can really satiate you before you hit the sack. Just be sure to stop at one.

7. Warm Low-Fat Milk & Honey

Skip the hot chocolate for a cup of low-fat milk. Add a dash of honey or a little fruit pulp to sweeten the deal.

8. Whole Wheat Khakhra

With loads of healthy, organic food brands springing up, it’s not too hard to find a healthy, baked version of methi khakra. Stock these in your pantry for whenever hunger strikes.

9. Veggie Stir Fry

Toss your favourite veggies in a tablespoon of olive oil with a sprinkle of herbs – and voila! If you’re eager to avoid flatulence though, it’s best to steer clear of vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli.

(With inputs from fitness expert Namita Jain and nutritionist Naini Setalvad)

(Lisabelle Gonsalves has recently turned freelance writer, after a 10-year career in lifestyle journalism. A travel blogger with a borderline unhealthy love for shoes, when she isn’t writing for her favourite beats – fashion, food and travel – she’s daydreaming about boogying with Meghan Trainor. Don’t judge.)