Getting a good night’s sleep is a crucial part of a healthy lifestyle. Yet, for some people, getting a restful night’s sleep can be a struggle. Many factors contribute to this problem, one being the kind of foods we eat. Believe it or not, certain foods can affect the quality of our sleep. That’s why it’s so important to pay attention to what we’re eating, especially before bedtime.
When it comes to the evening meal, some things are better than others. One trick is to consume foods high in the natural sleep hormone called melatonin. Melatonin is produced in our bodies, and it plays a vital role in helping us fall asleep. Cherries, for example, are a rich source of this sleep hormone. Likewise, foods rich in tryptophan, an amino acid converted to melatonin in our bodies, also promote good sleep. Foods like turkey are known for their high tryptophan content which is why people often feel sleepy after a big Thanksgiving meal!
What about drinks? It’s true that certain drinks might make it harder for us to sleep. Caffeinated drinks like coffee and soda are the usual suspects. Drinking these later in the day can shake off our sleep. Even though it might tempt you, alcohol can also be a problem. It might help you get to sleep, but it often disrupts the quality of sleep later on in the night.
It might come as a surprise, but spicy food can also affect your sleep. The heat from spicy food can cause heartburn and discomfort, making it more difficult to doze off or have a sound sleep.
Though it’s not just about what you eat, but also when you eat. Eating too close to bedtime can often cause digestive problems causing a disrupted sleep. Therefore, nutritionists suggest having dinner a few hours before hitting the sack.
All this may seem overwhelming, but remember, every little step helps. Small habits like limiting caffeine, skipping the spicy foods, and eating dinner a little earlier can go a long way in helping you get a good night’s sleep. So, pay attention to your diet, for it can make a big difference to your sleep, and therefore, health.
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