Sleep Tight: Why Nighttime Is for Rest, Not Revelry

Our bodies require a healthy daily cycle of activities to operate in full harmony.

During daylight, we're equipped for active energy, alertness, and concentration. Nighttime, however, is when our bodies "recharge" and prepare for the next day. Thus, we must listen to our body's rhythm and sync our pace of life to avoid overworking organs that need nighttime rest.

Nighttime eating often results from a disrupted daily routine and lack of meal planning. Late dinners, skipping breakfast, or having an unfulfilling lunch can lead to this habit.

Fatigue accumulates and peaks in the darkness, signaling the body lacks the essentials for functioning – resulting in unrestrained eating.

The body struggles to digest food properly and doesn't receive the nutrients needed, leaving you hungry. This attempt to boost energy or comfort oneself after a long day can become a damaging routine.

An important healing phase is sleep, crucial for memory processing. For sharp memory and clear thought, avoid eating three to four hours before bedtime.

Night eating disrupts metabolism; late-night calories burn slower, potentially leading to weight gain.

Our immune system works around the clock but focuses on eliminating improper cells at night. If you eat late, energy goes to digestion instead of detoxification. While a single late meal might be compensated the following night, chronic habits can cause issues, heaven forbid.

It’s critical to have planned, consistent meals with emphasis on breakfast. This will distribute energy throughout the day.

Avoid sweets before sleep to ensure restful rest. Coffee can also interfere with the sleep process.

Fried foods and animal proteins can slow digestion and cause discomfort in general. So, try to avoid heavy dinners. Spicy and seasoned foods may also lead to uneasiness.

Chamomile or lemon balm teas can promote a good night's sleep.

Zohara Shavit is an N.D. naturopath and an iris analyst, with extensive experience in treatment, advice, and workshop facilitation. For a free workshop, call 073-2221290