anybody work third shift? how can I get through the night

I am a homecare nurse, third shift Thursday night thru Sunday night.    I am also a full time mom and on those four days I get little to no sleep.  I was wondering if anyone had any tips on how I can maintain my calorie intake around 1700 and stay up for long periods of time, never mind how during the night while my client sleeps I can kep myself from reaching for his families candy dish or the pizza box on the table.  I just started the Calorie Count and motivated many friends to join also, but I feel like my job schedule is going to destry my effots.   Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

Oh my gosh! I know what you are talking about! I  work part time 3rd shift. I feel like a zombie most of the time, and I have 2 boys ages 8 and 5.  At night to work I bring my own food like a yogurt, salad, and whole grain rice cakes. I only bring water to drink and allow myself a cup of coffee only at the begining of my shift.  I doubt this helped much, but would you mind if I added you as a friend? I would love to hear how you deal with your lack of sleep. I myself could use tips!

http://www.ynhh.org/online/nutrition/advisor/ night_shift.html

http://www.nowtoronto.com/issues/2003-05-22/g oods_health.php

I did mid-nights for 6 1/2 years.  These 2 sites should help a little.

Hey thanks for the support!  Glad I am not the only insane mom out there!  I added you 1beavis1, sounds like we have alot in common, although I am a Marine wife... I did do 8 years in the Army Reserves... I wish I still had someone breathing down my neck to get me to do PT!  I am making a list of what to bring to work and sticking to my guns about avoiding the"junk" that provides a quick pick me up.  Until I win the lottery third shift for me  is what works for my family.  I am just so motivated to get trim/healthy that failure freaks me out.  You have been helpful!  As for my lack of sleep, I admit I am cranky, my husband gets the most of that!  My little girls are nonstop so that gives you an idea of the motivation to be up all day!  I am able to get some naps (that is what I call them) on the weekend but my husband tends to be rather loud and goofy with the girls, so I dont sleep and call me a nut but if he goes out with them I worry and dont sleep! Not that he cant handle them but I am narotic! haha  

the sites are great thanks for posting them! spoiled_candy