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Here's some terrific suggestions from reader Dick:

Amanda,

As someone who has struggled with a night time snacking habit forever, I offer a few suggestions.

Try to reduce the TV habit. For me TV is the trigger. I struggle to sit in front of the tube for more than an hour before the pangs start. Even if I have just finished a big meal and am full. Try to replace TV with any other habit. Work in the yard, walk the dog, even reading helps (it's hard to eat while holding a book, plus you don't see all those food commericals.)

Prepare healthy snacks in advance: raw veggies like celery, green peppers, broccoli and carrots (those pre-cut one are really a boon) are low in calories and filling.

Give up salted snacks. This has always been my downfall. I could down a half a box of Cheese-its in a heartbeat. It seems like I would keep eating and eating the salty snack just because I liked the salt so much. Then I would become thirsty for some soda or juice and then want to eat more of the snack.

About a month ago I went cold turkey on the salted snacks. I allowed myself anything else. This has worked really well. When I get the snack craving I try to go with the veggies first then sometimes hot oatmeal or cold cereal, which I like and is filling, Sometimes this works and sometimes I have to eat something else (like a couple cookies, yogurt or ice cream.) This strategy seems to be working. Often the veggies are enough and even when I lapse to the less healthy alternatives, usually one portion is enough.

Good luck!

Dick