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I tested supermarket chicken nuggets – the budget winner is joint with M&S and over HALF price compared to Birds Eye
I tested supermarket chicken nuggets – the budget winner is joint with M&S and over HALF price compared to Birds Eye

The Sun

time2 hours ago

  • Health
  • The Sun

I tested supermarket chicken nuggets – the budget winner is joint with M&S and over HALF price compared to Birds Eye

FROZEN foods like chicken nuggets tend to get a bad rap. But this freezer staple can be incredibly helpful for busy weeknights and many offer up a decent serving of protein to hungry kids. 9 Emma Shafqat, of said: "Chicken nuggets often get a bad reputation, but they can be a convenient and reliable source of protein especially for fussy eaters. "Look for ones made with chicken breast as the first ingredient and aim for low salt and saturated fat per serving. "A short, recognisable ingredient list (foods your find in your kitchen cupboards) is a good sign. "Nuggets can be a quick source of protein when added to wraps or salads for a balanced meal. "Like any processed food, it's about the quality you choose and what you serve alongside it." But which nuggets to choose? LYNSEY HOPE investigates: M&S Breaded Chicken Nuggets (600g) £4.75, £7.91 per kg Cook from frozen: 20 minute s Lynsey says: "Impressive nuggets from M&S, which looked and tasted great. Chicken makes up 53 per cent of the total ingredients and it's all breast meat. Once cooked, it was tender, while the breadcrumbs were nice and crisp after the recommended 20 minutes in the oven. "The ingredients list garlic, herb and sage which were subtle but gave these nuggets a tasty flavour. "The bag is mega expensive, setting you back £7.91 per kg which was even more than Birds Eye. But as they tasted great, I've still given them a reasonable score on value for money. "If you can afford to spend a bit more on nuggets, I'd recommend these ones." Taste: 5/5 Value: 4/5 Total: 9/10 Birds Eye Chicken Dippers (697g) £5.50 for 38, £7.80 per kg Cook from frozen: 15 minutes 9 Lynsey says: "The branded nuggets have a very distinctive taste and that is down to the batter I think, which is lightly fried. "Overall chicken make up 50 per cent of the ingredients and again, it's all breast meat. They are pricey but quite moreish and well-filled with meat. "One of the quickest to cook in the oven, taking just 15 minutes. They were quite similar to McDonald's nuggets in flavour and texture. "The biggest problem is the price, they cost nearly double most own brands per kilogram and the difference is minimal." Taste: 4/5 Value: 2/5 Total: 6/10 Sainsbury's Breaded Chicken Nuggets (450g) £1.49 for 30, £3.31 per kg Cook from frozen: 15 minutes Lynsey says: "Very meaty nuggets with British chicken making up 60 per cent of the ingredients - it's not necessarily breast meat though. The ingredients were simple, which I liked, with less rubbish in than other own brands. "They cooked well in the recommended 15 minutes and the breaded coating came out an appetising colour and had a lovely crunch. "The nuggets were small but excellent value too, on a par with Aldi when it comes to price per kilogram." Taste: 3/5 Value: 5/5 Total: 8/10 Asda Battered Chicken Nuggets (670g) £3, £4.48 per kg Cook from frozen: 18 minutes Lynsey says: "Asda's nuggets are made with 100 per cent breast meat and chicken makes up 58 per cent of the ingredients so a decent proportion. "They took a while to cook, probably closer to 20 minutes than the recommended 18. But once cooked, the batter was nice - they were very similar to McDonald's nuggets with quite a salty taste. "I also thought that there was quite a lot of air in the batter and they could have done with a bit more meat to fill them out." Taste: 4/5 Value: 3/5 Total: 7/10 Aldi Roosters Chicken Nuggets in Breadcrumbs (450g) £1.49 for 30, £3.31 per kg Cook from frozen: 16-18 minutes 9 Lynsey says: "Excellent value nuggets from Aldi and a decent sized bag. They are one of the meatiest with 60 per cent chicken in the ingredients and it's breast meat too. "Filling - though the flavour was a little bland, perhaps they need a little more seasoning in the meat." Taste: 3/5 Value: 4/5 Total: 7/10 Morrisons Battered Chicken Dippers (450g) £2.30 for 25, £5.11 per kg Cook from frozen: 16-18 minutes 9 Lynsey says: "Apparently these contain chicken breast but it was a strange texture and a grey mushy colour which was a bit off putting. "The batter was light and cooked well but it fell off the meat when I was trying to serve them and it all got a bit messy. "Over priced too. At £5.11 per kilogram they were more expensive than every other own brand, bar M&S. There wasn't 25 in the bag either - only 24." Taste: 2/5 Value: 2/5 Total: 4/10 Lidl Braemoor Red Hen Breaded Chicken Nuggets (1kg) £3.25 for 65, £3.25 per kg Cook from frozen: 14 minutes 9 Lynsey says: " Lidl 's nuggets were great value and this was a supersized family bag which is great for the freezer. The meat is 100 per cent chicken breast, though it's from Poland and not UK. "They were well-seasoned, filling and flavoursome. This bag is over £2 cheaper than Bird's Eye and you get 27 extra nuggets for your money." Taste: 4/5 Value: 5/5 Total: 9/10 Tesco Battered Chicken Dippers (450g) £1.49 for 20, £3.31 per kg Cook from frozen: 17 minutes Lynsey says: "These had an usual chemically taste and I wasn't a fan. The meat was very bitty too and I couldn't finish my portion, chucking three out of five in the bin. "They do contain 53 per cent chicken in the ingredients but it's not breast. "There weren't 20 in the bag either- I only got 18. Whilst they are good value, I wouldn't buy these again."

Celebrate the Fourth of July with a plant-based feast that tastes just as good as the REAL thing
Celebrate the Fourth of July with a plant-based feast that tastes just as good as the REAL thing

Daily Mail​

time15 hours ago

  • Entertainment
  • Daily Mail​

Celebrate the Fourth of July with a plant-based feast that tastes just as good as the REAL thing

Everyone's gearing up for Fourth of July celebrations! Whether you're cooking for your family or you're entertaining a crowd, you can't top Beyond Meat for its delicious and nutritious offerings. Known for its plant-based takes on animal meat, from the famed Beyond Burger to other favorites like Beyond Steak and Beyond Chicken Pieces. Everything is packed with protein and insanely good, with perfect texture and just the right flavor blend to make any dish come to life in an unforgettable way. Did someone say delicious? Beyond Burgers are juicy, delectable, and filling — and they make a great addition to any Fourth of July celebration Even if you're a meat lover, you may just be swayed by the brand's amazing selection of flavorful and healthy options. Everything is incredibly versatile, perfect for stacking up burgers, dressing up salads, or adding some protein to an entree. If you're new to the brand, Beyond Burger is a great introduction. Recently reformulated, it contains a whopping 21 grams of protein per serving and 2 grams of saturated fat per serving. That's significant if you're a meat eater watching what you eat, as the fat content is a massive 75 percent less than standard 80/20 ground beef. It only gets better as you browse the ingredient list, which includes avocado oil — and has absolutely no coconut or canola oil anymore. Don't be afraid to mix things up with Beyond Burger. It's a must for a basic plant-based cheeseburger, of course, but you can also load it with creative topping combinations to keep it interesting. There are so many options to make your 4th festivities memorable, like basil, tomato, and mozzarella for caprese vibes, or spicy pickles, salsa, and hot pepper cheese for fiery flavor. Beyond Steak is just as much a highlight, enriched with 21 grams of protein and only 1 gram of fat. It's a huge fan favorite, too, as it's one of the leading plant-based meat products out there. It tastes like the real deal, but is clean and healthy by comparison. If you're all about the light bites, Beyond Chicken Pieces will fit nicely into your celebrations. The new addition to the Beyond lineup is exactly what you need to get at least 21 grams of protein (with an exceptional 0.5 grams of saturated fat). Toss them into a salad or stir them into a pasta to take your dish in a heartier and even tastier direction. The bottom line? You have to taste Beyond to believe it! It's truly... well, beyond your wildest foodie dreams, and trust us — you will love it from first bite.

You've Probably Hit Your Protein Goal: Here's What Experts Think You Need Instead
You've Probably Hit Your Protein Goal: Here's What Experts Think You Need Instead

CNET

timea day ago

  • Health
  • CNET

You've Probably Hit Your Protein Goal: Here's What Experts Think You Need Instead

There's plenty of healthy eating and workout trends that come and go over the years, but one topic seems to come up again and again: Protein. Contrary to what you may be hearing on social media, you're probably already getting all the protein you need. Similar to counting calories, the protein goals trend has gotten out of hand, causing people to buy expensive protein bars, shakes and slabs of meat. According to Dr. Andrew Freeman, a cardiologist at National Jewish Health in Denver, it's actually "extremely uncommon" if not "nearly impossible" to be deficient in protein, at least in the US, where there's an abundance of food. So what's the deal with this protein push by almost every wellness influencer you follow? You're likely getting enough protein without even trying As long as you're not heavily restricting yourself and getting enough calories to fuel your body, you're probably hitting your protein goals just by eating a typical American diet. While some people may need more to feel satisfied and strong or to maximize their muscle gains in the gym, the reality for many Americans might be that they meet their protein requirements through their daily diet. For some, that requirement may be well below 100 grams, which is one elusive protein goal often touted, including by the wellness team here at CNET. "People are absolutely obsessed with protein," Freeman said, pointing to the fact it's also likely you'll hit your "protein goals" even if you're eating a plant-based diet, so long as it's varied and full. One potentially influencing factor toward the protein goal trend is the rise in interest in the carnivore diet, which prioritizes meat consumption. "What most people forget is some of earth's biggest and strongest mammals, they're all plant-based," Freeman said. "When was the last time you saw a protein-deficient gorilla or elephant?" Americans, in particular, have a complicated and sometimes disordered relationship with food – when we're not obsessing over getting enough of something (#proteingoals), we're restricting something else (think the villainization of fats and carbs). Examples of some diets that oscillate between these extremes include the ketogenic diet, the carnivore diet, calorie-counting apps and taking extra time to make complicated drinks in the name of weight loss. This would be more defensible if we were reaping the health benefits of sticking to these diets, but instead, Americans are leaders in chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes (preventable and often reversible through diet). Many people also suffer a reduced quality of life from restricting themselves or following diets that may or may not meaningfully improve their health down the line, and may also inspire shame or eating disorders. Not to mention, most of us are actually deficient in fiber, and a good chunk of us are low in other very important nutrients, such as iron, vitamin D and more. In fact, all the focus on protein ends up causing people to overlook other nutrients their body needs that they can't get from protein. Fiber, for example, is a key carbohydrate that is found mainly in plants and should also be prioritized, especially with the rising rates in colorectal cancer among people younger than 50 years old. Of course, this is absolutely not to say that protein isn't important, or that some people need more than others based on their activity level or the muscle build they're going for. Here, we merely take a minute to plead the case that, when it comes to protein, you may be able to cool it a bit. Instagram How much protein should you actually be eating? Look, the intro to this topic came on a little strong, so it is important to take a moment and stress how protein is an absolutely vital nutrient: protein contains amino acids, which build our bodies and help them function. If we didn't eat protein, we'd be dead. To get a baseline of how much we need to support our needs, there's fortunately a recommended daily amount, or RDA, of protein. This is 0.8-gram of protein per kilogram of body weight. (There are about 2.2 pounds in one kg.) This means a person who weighs 200 pounds needs about 73 grams of protein to meet their needs and not be deficient. Where it gets tricky is deciphering exactly how much protein you need not only to stay alive, but to thrive. Like every health "thing," what's best for you will depend on your body and your activity level, for example. But even taking this into account, you may not have to work as hard as you think to get adequate protein, even if you're hitting the gym regularly. In a 2023 podcast hosted by Zoe, a nutrition science company and maker of at-home gut microbiome test kits, Stanford University professor and nutrition researcher Christopher Gardner explained why fears of falling short in the protein department are often overblown. "When the US comes up with recommended daily allowances for protein, vitamins and minerals, the standard approach is to take two standard deviations above the average," Gardner explained in the podcast. For the 0.8-gram of protein per kilogram of weight, he said, "You've picked a number that should be adequate for 97.5% of the population." But what if you're above average? Chances are, you're not. "To me, it's the American idea of 'that's what the RDA is, but I know I'm above average, so let me make sure I get some extra here,'" Gardner explained. "It was built in to recognize that some people need more [protein]," he continued, going on to explain that when you're working out heavily, you're naturally going to feel hungrier, which will prompt you to eat more -- which means (for most people), naturally eating more protein. But what if you want to really gain muscle? To its credit, and in a refreshing turn of American-diet events, the protein goal trend is focused on adding rather than restricting. And if you're into intense weightlifting, or if you want to gain muscle, you will need more. But chances are that "more" is not as much more as you might think -- at least if you're considering consciously adding protein through shakes and other supplements. If you really want to build muscle or are seriously into weight lifting, estimates on how much "extra" protein you need varies, and the best (and safest) advice is always to talk to your doctor or nutritionist to take your whole health and lifestyle into account. But some estimates land around 1.2 to 1.7 grams per kilogram of weight. Others are even higher, at up to 2 grams per kilogram. This discussion assumes you enjoy counting your macros, though. If you eat when you're hungry, fuel up after a hard workout and choose foods that are rich in protein and also part of a well-balanced diet, you should be good to go. In addition to weightlifting, Freeman said that people with medical concerns, such as undergoing surgery or recovering from burns, need more protein. Pregnancy and older adulthood are other instances when people's protein requirement goes up a bit in relation to their calorie intake. Yaorusheng/Moment via Getty Images Can you get too much protein? What about protein's benefits? High protein consumption makes the kidneys work harder, which may be a concern for some and is one reason parents should be wary of giving kids extra protein supplements, according to the Cleveland Clinic. However, hitting your high protein goals or even exceeding them shouldn't be harmful for most people, though keep in mind that after they're broken down into those vital amino acids and the energy is expended, excess protein is stored as fat if not used for energy. Now for a benefit: In addition to overall body function and muscle building, protein is very filling and satiating. This means a protein-rich meal may aid in weight loss (if that's your goal) because it keeps you full for longer when compared, for example, to a meal that's more carb-heavy and lacking in protein. Craving protein? You could be low in iron About 95% of Americans aren't eating enough fiber, according to research from 2016. Fiber is found in plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, seeds and more. Nearly one in three of us are also low in iron, which is where things get interesting in the protein discussion, because excellent sources of protein are often excellent sources of iron. (Steak and other red meat, for example.) However, there are plant-based foods like dark greens that are high in iron and also in fiber. Vitamin D, a nutrient we can get from the sun as well as from our food, is also one Americans tend to be lower in. This is especially notable during the cooler months. Unfortunately, the advice for how to best meet your nutritional needs isn't flashy and mimics previous guidance: Eat a full diet full of variety and color, prioritizing foods like vegetables, healthy fats and, yes, protein. You just don't need to obsess about it.

Canned sardines are better than you remember — unless you never tried them
Canned sardines are better than you remember — unless you never tried them

Yahoo

time2 days ago

  • General
  • Yahoo

Canned sardines are better than you remember — unless you never tried them

Canned sardines are one of the most underrated pantry staples. They're cheap, packed with protein, and full of healthy fats. If you've been avoiding them, it's time to reconsider — whether you're new to sardines or just need better ways to use them, here's how to make the most of this small but mighty fish. Canned sardines make dinner ridiculously easy. No prep, no hassle; just open a can, and you're halfway to a meal. Eat them as-is or mix them into something — either way, with the right seasonings and pairings, they can bring big flavor and solid nutrition to your table. Plus, they're one of the most sustainable seafood choices out there, since sardines reproduce quickly and don't deplete ocean stocks like larger fish. They're also one of the best cheap seafood options that deliver both quality and convenience. Unlike many other fish, sardines are budget-friendly without compromising on protein, healthy fats, or essential nutrients. Whether you're looking for an affordable way to add more seafood to your diet or just need a quick meal solution, sardines check all the boxes. Not all canned sardines are the same. The type you choose can affect texture, flavor, and how you use them in recipes. Some are firm and meaty, while others are softer and more delicate—so if you've tried one type and weren't a fan, you might just need to switch it up. Sardines packed in oil are richer and more flavorful, with a firmer texture that holds up well in dishes. The oil helps keep them moist and enhances their natural taste, making them a solid choice for eating straight from the can or tossing into salads, pasta, and toast. Olive oil-packed sardines are especially popular for their smooth texture and slightly buttery finish. Water-packed sardines are on the milder side, both in taste and texture. They tend to be a little drier and flakier than their oil-packed counterparts, which makes them a great option for mixing into salads or spreads where you're adding other flavors and moisture. If you're new to sardines and don't want anything too strong, this might be the way to go. These come packed with built-in flavor, which makes them one of the easiest ways to try sardines if you're unsure about the taste. Tomato sauce adds a tangy, slightly sweet contrast, while mustard brings a bit of sharpness and spice. The texture is typically softer since they've absorbed some of the sauce, making them perfect for crackers, sandwiches, or mixing into warm grains like rice or pasta. Not all canned sardines are the same, and a few details can make a big difference in flavor, texture, and quality. If you've ever grabbed a random can and thought, Why does this taste like bait? — you probably didn't pick the right one. Here's what to look for. Most canned sardines are wild-caught, which is great because they tend to have better texture and taste than farmed fish. If the label doesn't say wild-caught, check another brand. Sardines with bones are higher in calcium, and the bones are so soft you barely notice them. But if the idea bothers you, boneless sardines are an option. They tend to be softer, though, so if you like a firmer bite, stick with the whole fish. If you're avoiding BPA, check the label. Many brands now use BPA-free cans, but not all, so it's worth a quick look. Some brands are just better than others. If you want sardines that actually taste great, Wild Planet, King Oscar, and Season are solid choices. They're known for consistent quality, and their olive oil-packed versions are a safe bet. As supported by Healthline, sardines are packed with nutrients, making them a great addition to any diet. Here's what they offer: Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. According to the National Institutes of Health, they also play a key role in brain function, supporting memory and cognitive performance. Calcium in sardines comes from their tiny soft bones that help maintain strong bones and teeth. The Mayo Clinic states that calcium also plays a crucial role in muscle movement and nerve signaling, ensuring the body functions properly. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which is essential for bone strength. Harvard Medical School says it supports immune function and may help regulate mood and energy levels. Protein in sardines is high, with a 3.75-ounce can containing approximately 22-25 grams, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This makes them a great option for muscle maintenance and satiety. Low mercury levels make sardines a safer seafood choice than larger fish like tuna. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration classifies sardines as a "Best Choice" due to their low mercury content. Because they are small and grow quickly, they don't accumulate as much mercury, making them a healthy option for regular consumption. Canned sardines aren't just for eating straight from the can. Here are some easy ways to use them. Flake sardines over a green salad, mix them with beans for extra protein, or toss them into a grain bowl for a quick, balanced meal. They work well with citrus-based dressings, fresh herbs, and crunchy vegetables. If you're not sure about the taste, start by mashing them with a little lemon juice and mayo — kind of like tuna salad but with way more nutrients. Mixing them with stronger flavors like Dijon mustard, capers, or pickled onions can also help tone down any fishiness. Canned vegetables like corn or green beans add even more texture and flavor with minimal effort. Stir sardines into warm pasta with olive oil, garlic and red pepper flakes for a quick meal. They also work well in tomato-based sauces or alongside roasted vegetables. Spread mashed sardines on toast with butter or cream cheese. Add some fresh herbs, pickled onions, or capers for extra flavor. They also make a great sandwich filling, whether mashed or left in chunks, especially when mixed with a bit of mustard or mayo for extra flavor. Mix sardines into rice or quinoa with fresh vegetables and a simple dressing. The added protein and healthy fats make for a balanced meal with minimal effort. Combine sardines with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings to make patties, then pan-fry them until crispy. Serve with a dipping sauce or in a sandwich. A little heat from jalapeno or cayenne can add a spicy kick, similar to salmon patties, and a drizzle of lemon dill aioli brings extra freshness. If you're not used to sardines, their flavor can be strong. The right pairings can balance that out and make them a great addition to your meals. Here's what works best: A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar helps cut through the richness of sardines, making them taste fresher and less heavy. Red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even a little pickle brine can work if you want a tangy kick. Parsley, cilantro, or dill bring a burst of freshness that helps balance the stronger fishy notes. Basil can also work, especially if you're adding sardines to pasta or tomato-based dishes. Chopped onions, celery, or pickles add texture and make every bite more balanced. Capers also work well, giving a salty, briny contrast without overwhelming the dish. A little heat makes sardines more interesting. Try hot sauce, black pepper, or Dijon mustard for a bold flavor boost. Smoked paprika or chili flakes add depth, and if you want a milder spice, a bit of horseradish can give a subtle bite. If the texture of sardines is what's throwing you off, mixing them with something creamy can help. Mayo, Greek yogurt, or mashed avocado can soften the intensity and make them more approachable — especially in sandwiches, spreads, or salads. Canned sardines last a long time, but proper storage keeps them at their best. Knowing how to store them correctly helps maintain their texture and flavor, just like other canned goods that are always worth keeping in your pantry. Store canned sardines in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. They typically last for up to five years. Transfer any leftover sardines to an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. Use them within two to three days for the best flavor and texture. Sardines are a nutritious and versatile option that often gets overlooked. Whether you're new to them or just looking for better ways to enjoy them, these answers will help you make the most of this pantry staple. Are sardine bones safe to eat? Yes, the bones in canned sardines are soft and completely edible. They're also a great source of calcium. What's the best way to eat sardines if you're trying them for the first time? If you're new to sardines and a little unsure, start with sardines packed in olive oil — they tend to have a milder taste and better texture than those in water. Eating them straight from the can might be too much at first, so try mashing them on toast with a squeeze of lemon, a drizzle of olive oil, and fresh herbs like parsley or dill. If you prefer something more familiar, mix them into pasta with garlic, red pepper flakes, and a little Parmesan to blend the flavors. Pairing sardines with bold ingredients like mustard, capers, or pickled onions can also help balance the taste while making them feel less intimidating. Canned sardines might surprise you — in a good way. They're packed with protein and healthy fats, easy to use, and way more versatile than you'd think. Whether you mix them into pasta, add them to salads, or enjoy them on toast, the right seasoning can turn them into a meal you'll actually look forward to.

Can eating certain foods before bed really boost your metabolism? Health experts explain.
Can eating certain foods before bed really boost your metabolism? Health experts explain.

Yahoo

time3 days ago

  • Health
  • Yahoo

Can eating certain foods before bed really boost your metabolism? Health experts explain.

Is there really a life hack to burn calories in your sleep? Social media posts have detailed how eating certain foods, including ones high in protein, right before bed can "boost your metabolism," which in this case is seemingly a euphemism for helping you to lose weight fast. Is there any truth to this idea? Or is it just a reimagined version of baseless claims that used to dominate old magazine headlines? Dietitian Jamie Nadeau, RD, explains what we know about metabolism-boosting foods. Noted: Any physical activity burns calories, but these exercises burn the most While there are some small research studies that posit potential benefits of consuming protein right before bed to boost metabolism and workout recovery, experts say there's way more research to show that eating anything right before calling it a night is detrimental to your health. Other foods, including hot peppers, caffeine and unrefined carbohydrates such as fruits, vegetables whole grains and legumes, have been shown to temporarily boost metabolism, but Nadeau notes that there are none that are particularly effective for doing so while you're sleeping. "It's much more important for metabolism to work on long-term health strategies like building muscle, staying active, getting quality sleep and prioritizing a nutrient-dense balanced diet," she says. What is meal sequencing? Health experts explain whether the rising diet trend works. Not only does eating right before bed not offer the health benefits some claim, it can actually have some negative impacts on other areas of your health, which in turn can make metabolizing food and losing weight more difficult. "There are no foods that you can eat before bed to help metabolism," Nadeau says. "In fact, eating close to bedtime can increase your odds of experiencing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and can impact your sleep." The esophageal sphincter is a tube that transports food to the stomach before closing up, so as to avoid regurgitating stomach acid, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. GERD occurs when that sphincter relaxes, allowing food and stomach acid to push back up through the opening. When you lay down too soon after eating, gravity heightens the chance of the contents of your stomach rising up. And those who wear a smart watch or smart ring might notice that their sleep scores tend to dip on evenings when they consume food shortly before bedtime. One study using data collected by the U.S. Census Bureau between 2003 and 2018 found that those who eat 30 minutes to an hour before bed are exponentially more likely to wake up several times at night compared to those who ate earlier. To avoid both types of disturbances, it's best to stop eating two to three hours before laying down and going to bed, according to the Cleveland Clinic. There's one exception to the "no eating before bed" rule, though. Those who take insulin or another medication to treat type 1 diabetes may occasionally need to eat a snack before bedtime in order to prevent or treat low blood sugar, according to the Mayo Clinic. But if that becomes a regular necessity, experts say you should talk to your doctor. If you were hoping this story contained a few magical metabolism-boosting bedtime snacks, experts say unfortunately that kind of diet plan is too good to be true. Instead, they recommend focusing on tried and true (and thoroughly-researched!) ways to stay healthy. "As with most things, there are no quick fixes to achieving a healthy diet and lifestyle," Nadeau says. "The strongest research shows that you can improve your health by eating a balanced diet with fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats, along with staying active and engaging in healthy lifestyle choices." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Metabolism-friendly foods to eat before bed? Dietitian debunks claims

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