While we need water, food, and air to live, we think that to sustain each day, a good night's sleep is one of the most important factors, and more so the foundation of a healthy lifestyle. Sleep recharges our brains and bodies, and when our entire system gets a good rest, it heals and grows stronger.
On the other hand, sleep deprivation is known to lead to a wide variety of health issues, ranging from headaches to even heart disease. While many external aspects like the type of bed, lighting, noise, surroundings, and temperature play a huge role in allowing you to sleep well, physiological factors like diet are also extremely important.
There are certain foods and drinks that can make it difficult for you to get a proper night's sleep. Wondering which ones to avoid before sleeping? Read on.
1. White Bread
Packed with refined carbohydrates and a high glycaemic index, white bread has been linked with a higher risk of insomnia, as per research. Experts reveal that high GI foods cause blood sugar levels to spike rapidly, which could affect the ability to sleep well.
2. Spicy Food
Spicy foods tend to increase body temperature and cause acid reflux and other gut issues, all of which are bound to lead to a restless night and negatively affect sleep. This is why experts suggest avoiding junk or processed foods before sleeping.
3. Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain tyramine, an amino acid that stimulates brain activity and can keep you awake. Moreover, tomatoes are acidic in nature, and consuming them just before bed can cause indigestion and acidity. The same is the reason to avoid any citrus foods just before bedtime.
4. Ice Cream
No matter how much we love to relish a scoop or two after dinner and before bedtime, one should avoid having ice cream after dinner or as a midnight binge. High in fats and sugar, ice cream can hamper your sleep, as fatty foods are believed to keep you awake since your body requires more time to digest them properly. Foods high in sugar have also been associated with insomnia.
5. Chocolates
Certain types of chocolate contain tyrosine, which keeps us alert. Besides, dark chocolate contains theobromine, a compound that increases heart rate and, in turn, affects our sleep. Besides sugar, as discussed before, chocolate is linked to insomnia.
If you are wondering what foods are good for a peaceful sleep, read about them here.
