A variety of factors can influence the quality of your sleep. So, room temperature, outside noise, and brightness play an important role in the sleep-wake system. Try to control these factors in order to provide a better quality of sleep.
However, there is another important factor that usually people tend to overlook. What you eat or drink before sleep can affect your sleep. So, foods loaded with protein, sodium, and fat can make you toss and turn while others can make you wrap yourself snugly.
If you want to promote better sleep quality, check out the following list of foods that you should avoid or you should consume before bed.
Avoid These Foods Before Bedtime
1. Dark Chocolate
Chocolate has caffeine, a substance that is not the most appropriate one before going to bed. It’s the theobromine and caffeine in dark chocolate that stimulate the nervous system and increase the heart rate.
2. Chicken
Chicken meat abounds in protein which is good for your body but not before going to bed. The amount of protein can slow down the process of digestion by 50%. So, avoid eating chicken before going to bed because your body will find it hard to digest thus it will be difficult to fall asleep.
3. A Bacon Cheeseburger
This is not the best option for a dinner, especially a healthy one but it can also disturb your sleep balance. Bacon contains a great amount of fat which stimulates the production of stomach acid. This acid can cause heartburn that can wake you up in the middle of the night. Try to completely avoid bacon cheeseburgers, especially before you go to bed.
4. Spicy Food
If you are a fan of spicy foods, eat them throughout the day but not at night. Although delicious, it can cause heartburn. So, control the jalapenos.
Consume These Foods Before Bedtime
1. Milk
Milk contains an amino acid, tryptophan that promotes a better night’s rest. So, listen to your grandma and drink a glass of milk before you go to bed. You can combine the milk with some cookies, for a more delicious snack. Try to use fully organic hormone-free milk.
2. Turkey
Like milk, turkey also contains tryptophan, the acid that regulates the rhythm and quality of sleep. So, consume some turkey before going to bed and you will fall asleep faster. After the heavy Thanksgiving night, everyone will fall asleep.
3. Bananas
Bananas are high in calcium and magnesium, minerals that relax and repair the muscles. At least one banana before bed will guarantee a peaceful night’s sleep and you will feel more refreshed and relaxed.
4. Cherries
Cherries are a very good choice for any part of the day but are especially useful before bedtime. The melatonin in cherries controls the quality of your sleep so if you consume some cherries before bed you will get more relaxing and good-quality sleep.
Via David Wolfe | Benenden Health | Delish | Health | Web Md