The Foods to Avoid and Opt for Before Bedtime

You are supposed to wake up well-rested. If you wake up in the morning feeling exhausted and tired, it is very probably that you lack energy.

Adjust your diet and include or, on the contrary, exclude some certain foods. The list below will help you to make your first steps towards a healthier lifestyle.

The Right Foods to Eat Before Bedtime

Raw Honey: Night sleep can be improved. Induce it by taking a couple of small teaspoons of raw honey in the evening. Raw honey has a special compound that neutralizes orexin. Orexin is a chemical known for its alerting effect. Too much honey is not good since the product contains lots of sugars. They can make a negative impact on sleep, too.

Chamomile Tea: this herb has been recommended as a natural means to treat insomnia for centuries. Chamomile is great for reducing anxiety and tension. It helps to recover after stress. Before you go to sleep, brew a cup of chamomile tea, let it cool down and drink it slowly for better results.

Almonds: almonds are exceptionally rich in calcium. This mineral helps the body to produce melatonin and makes you feel sleepy. Numerous studies had demonstrated that the high magnesium content in almonds is exactly what is needed to keep you sleeping throughout the night.

Jasmine Rice: be one of those who consume jasmine rice on a regular basis. It has been proved that individuals who consumed this food fall asleep faster compared to those who opt for any other varieties of rice. There is an explanation: jasmine rice has a high GI (glycemic index). It always causes a decrease in your energy levels right after eating.

Salmon or Oily Fish: serotonin is released when you provide your body with sufficient amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish, especially oily kinds, contains these acids. When your brain produces serotonin and releases it, you feel less stressed and more relaxed. Eat oily fish in moderation before bedtime.

The Wrong Foods to Eat Before Bedtime

Caffeine: Avoid energy drinks. They are full of sugars, caffeine and chemicals. Also, you should not drink teas and coffee that contain caffeine before going to bed. Energy drinks contain taurine. This element raises alertness and increases blood pressure. It is good if you stop drinking the mentioned beverages after 3 p.m.

Alcohol: According to researchers, alcohol prevents the body from falling asleep. It especially affects the deeper stages of sleep. Brandy might make you feel drowsy. However, the next morning you will wake up feeling awful. Alcohol dehydrates your organism and you wake up feeling and looking not your best. 

Spicy Foods: Spices have stimulating properties. They speed up metabolism and activate some certain organs. Your whole body enters a state when, instead of resting, it starts to work harder. Spicy foods can also cause indigestion and heartburn.

Steak: Steak belongs to the foods that are rich in protein. Protein is not that easy to digest. Your body does not need this kind of food at night. If you eat steak, do not be surprised that it disturbs your sleeping patterns. Let your body and mind enter relaxation mode. Steaks are rich in fats. The more fats you consume, the more severe your sleep apnea is. Eat lean fish or turkey instead of steak.