apollo

After 6 PM Diet Plan for Weight Loss

Struggling with late-night cravings? Discover a healthy after 6 PM diet plan for weight loss with ideal foods, smart snacks, and simple lifestyle tips to burn fat effectively.

reviewerImg

Written by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam

Reviewed by Dr. Md Yusuf Shareef MBBS

Last updated on 24th Jul, 2025

Weight Loss

Losing weight can feel like a challenge, especially when it comes to controlling what you eat in the evenings. Many people struggle with late-night cravings, overeating, or making unhealthy food choices after 6 PM. However, with the right diet plan, you can support your weight loss goals while still enjoying satisfying meals.

In this article, we’ll discuss:

Why eating right after 6 PM matters for weight loss

  • Foods to include and avoid in your evening meals
  • Healthy snack options to curb cravings
  • Simple lifestyle tips to enhance weight loss

Why Does Your Diet After 6 PM Matter?

Your metabolism slows down in the evening, meaning your body burns fewer calories while you sleep. Eating heavy, high-calorie meals late at night can lead to weight gain because the excess calories may be stored as fat. Additionally, late-night eating can disrupt digestion and sleep quality, which also affects weight management.

By following a balanced diet after 6 PM, you can:

  • Prevent unnecessary calorie intake
  • Improve digestion and sleep
  • Keep blood sugar levels stable
  • Avoid unhealthy cravings

Best Foods to Eat After 6 PM

1. Lean Proteins

Protein keeps you full for longer and helps repair muscles overnight. Good options include:

  • Grilled chicken or fish
  • Eggs (boiled or scrambled)
  • Tofu or paneer (for vegetarians)
  • Lentils or beans (in moderate portions)

2. Fibre-Rich Vegetables

Non-starchy vegetables are low in calories but high in fibre, aiding digestion. Try:

  • Broccoli, spinach, or zucchini
  • Cucumber, bell peppers, or lettuce
  • Stir-fried or lightly steamed veggies

3. Healthy Fats (In Small Portions)

Healthy fats help with satiety and nutrient absorption. Include:

  • A handful of nuts (almonds, walnuts)
  • Avocado slices
  • Olive oil (for cooking or dressing)

4. Light Carbs (If Needed)

If you need carbs, opt for slow-digesting, low-glycemic options:

  • Quinoa or brown rice (small portions)
  • Sweet potato (baked or boiled)
  • Whole wheat chapati (1 small piece)

5. Hydrating Liquids

Avoid sugary drinks and opt for:

  • Herbal teas (ginger, chamomile, green tea)
  • Warm lemon water
  • Buttermilk (without sugar)

Foods to Avoid After 6 PM

  • To support weight loss, limit or avoid:
  • Heavy fried foods (pakoras, chips, fried chicken)
  • Sugary snacks (cookies, ice cream, chocolates)
  • Refined carbs (white bread, pasta, maida-based foods)
  • Processed foods (instant noodles, ready-to-eat meals)
  • Caffeinated drinks (coffee, energy drinks—can disrupt sleep)

Healthy Late-Night Snack Ideas

If you feel hungry after dinner, try these light and nutritious options:

  • A small bowl of Greek yoghurt with chia seeds
  • A handful of roasted makhana (fox nuts)
  • Sliced apple with almond butter
  • Cucumber or carrot sticks with hummus
  • Herbal tea with a few nuts

Consult a Top Dietitian for More Health Benefits

Dr Darshana R, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr Darshana R

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

15 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (Internal Medicine), Diploma in Allergy, Asthma and Immunology , Fellowship in Diabetes

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru

recommendation

83%

(100+ Patients)

650

98 Cashback

Neelanjana J, clinical nutrition

Neelanjana J

clinical nutrition

3 Years • Bsc., Msc. Nutrition and Dietetics.

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru

500

75 Cashback

Ms Manisha Patil, Dietician

Ms Manisha Patil

Dietician

25 Years • B.A.S.M., M Sc Food & Science and Nutrition , ADND. CCHA . PGDHM

Pune

Apollo Clinic, Nigdi, Pune

700

700

No Booking Fees

Lifestyle Tips for Better Weight Loss

1. Eat Dinner Early

Aim to finish dinner by 7:30–8 PM to allow proper digestion before bedtime.

2. Control Portions

Use smaller plates to avoid overeating. Fill half your plate with veggies, a quarter with protein, and the rest with healthy carbs.

3. Avoid Screen Time While Eating

Eating while watching TV or using your phone can lead to mindless overeating. Focus on your meal instead.

4. Stay Hydrated

Sometimes thirst is mistaken for hunger. Drink water or herbal tea before reaching for snacks.

5. Get Enough Sleep

Poor sleep increases hunger hormones, leading to cravings. Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep.

When to Seek Professional Help?

If you’re struggling with weight loss despite following a healthy diet, consider consulting a nutritionist or doctor. They can help create a personalised meal plan based on your health needs.

Need expert advice?

You can book a consultation with a dietitian on Apollo 24|7 for a customised weight loss plan.

Final Thoughts

Eating right after 6 PM doesn’t mean starving yourself—it’s about making smart, balanced choices. By focusing on protein, fibre, and healthy fats while avoiding processed foods, you can support weight loss without feeling deprived.

Remember, consistency is key! Small changes in your evening eating habits can lead to big results over time.

Would you like a personalised diet plan? Connect with a nutritionist today on Apollo 24|7 and take the first step toward a healthier you!


Consult a Top Dietitian for More Health Benefits

Dr Darshana R, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr Darshana R

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

15 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (Internal Medicine), Diploma in Allergy, Asthma and Immunology , Fellowship in Diabetes

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru

recommendation

83%

(100+ Patients)

650

98 Cashback

Neelanjana J, clinical nutrition

Neelanjana J

clinical nutrition

3 Years • Bsc., Msc. Nutrition and Dietetics.

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru

500

75 Cashback

Ms Manisha Patil, Dietician

Ms Manisha Patil

Dietician

25 Years • B.A.S.M., M Sc Food & Science and Nutrition , ADND. CCHA . PGDHM

Pune

Apollo Clinic, Nigdi, Pune

700

700

No Booking Fees

Consult a Top Dietitian for More Health Benefits

Ms Malabika Datta, Dietician

Ms Malabika Datta

Dietician

19 Years • Bsc (Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics), Msc (Dietetics & Food Service Management)

Kolkata

Malabika’s Diet Clinic, Kolkata

650

Dr Darshana R, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr Darshana R

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

15 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (Internal Medicine), Diploma in Allergy, Asthma and Immunology , Fellowship in Diabetes

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru

recommendation

83%

(100+ Patients)

650

98 Cashback

Neelanjana J, clinical nutrition

Neelanjana J

clinical nutrition

3 Years • Bsc., Msc. Nutrition and Dietetics.

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru

500

75 Cashback

Ms Chetu Singhi, Dietician

Ms Chetu Singhi

Dietician

20 Years • MSC Dietetics & Nutrition

Kolkata

RB Diagnostic - Dietician Diet2fit Chetu Singhi, Kolkata

3000

No Booking Fees

Ms Manisha Patil, Dietician

Ms Manisha Patil

Dietician

25 Years • B.A.S.M., M Sc Food & Science and Nutrition , ADND. CCHA . PGDHM

Pune

Apollo Clinic, Nigdi, Pune

700

700

No Booking Fees

Consult a Top Dietitian for More Health Benefits

Ms Malabika Datta, Dietician

Ms Malabika Datta

Dietician

19 Years • Bsc (Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics), Msc (Dietetics & Food Service Management)

Kolkata

Malabika’s Diet Clinic, Kolkata

650

Dr Darshana R, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr Darshana R

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

15 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (Internal Medicine), Diploma in Allergy, Asthma and Immunology , Fellowship in Diabetes

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru

recommendation

83%

(100+ Patients)

650

98 Cashback

Neelanjana J, clinical nutrition

Neelanjana J

clinical nutrition

3 Years • Bsc., Msc. Nutrition and Dietetics.

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru

500

75 Cashback

Ms Chetu Singhi, Dietician

Ms Chetu Singhi

Dietician

20 Years • MSC Dietetics & Nutrition

Kolkata

RB Diagnostic - Dietician Diet2fit Chetu Singhi, Kolkata

3000

No Booking Fees

Ms Manisha Patil, Dietician

Ms Manisha Patil

Dietician

25 Years • B.A.S.M., M Sc Food & Science and Nutrition , ADND. CCHA . PGDHM

Pune

Apollo Clinic, Nigdi, Pune

700

700

No Booking Fees

More articles from General Medical Consultation