Foods to Avoid Before Bedtime for a Good Night's Sleep

It's midnight, and you're about to head to bed when suddenly you find yourself peering into the fridge, searching for a snack. What's the first thing you'll eat, and is it healthy? The answer often leans towards the unhealthy - many of us consume less nutritious food during the late-night hours.

Generally, eating before sleeping isn't recommended, but there are certain foods that can disrupt your sleep quality as well.

Red Meat: Steaks and burgers, for instance, can make you feel tired. They are tough to digest and waking up with a stomach ache isn't uncommon. The rise in body temperature after eating them can make entering a peaceful sleep state more difficult.

Dark Chocolate: As surprising as it may sound, dark chocolate, often considered a healthy snack, contains caffeine which might keep you awake for hours. The sugar content also spikes blood sugar levels which can disturb sleep.

Avoid Spicy Foods: Spicy dishes contain a compound called capsaicin that raises body temperature and hampers quality sleep. It can cause heartburn, digestive issues, and hot flashes.

So, what should you eat instead? Opt for walnuts and other nuts, which are rich in compounds that encourage sleep. Dairy drinks are also beneficial. They contain protein that helps create a feeling of fullness and supports the release of serotonin, which promotes sleep. Additionally, you might want to sip on caffeine-free tea, as caffeine can disrupt your sleep and isn't suggested before bed.