A good night’s sleep is the foundation of a healthy lifestyle. Sleep recharges our brains and bodies. When our system rests, it heals and grows stronger. Sleep deprivation is linked with a wide variety of problems, ranging from headaches to heart disease. External aspects like the type of bed, lighting, surroundings, and temperature play a role in allowing you to sleep well.
However, physiological aspects like diet are also important. Certain foods and drinks can make it difficult for you to sleep properly. Sometimes, we don’t even realise this issue, and instead, blame our insomnia on other reasons. Wondering which foods should not be eaten before bedtime? Find out below.
Here are 5 foods you must avoid to get a good night’s sleep:
Tomatoes can inhibit your sleep due to two reasons. Firstly, it contains tyramine, an amino acid that is said to stimulate brain activity and will keep you awake.
White bread contains a lot of refined carbohydrates and has a high glycemic index. Research has shown that such foods could be linked with a higher risk of insomnia.
Spicy foods may lead to an increase in body temperature, which can negatively affect sleep. Certain spicy foods can cause acid reflux and other gut issues.
Unfortunately, you should not be having a bowl of ice cream after dinner or as a midnight binge. Ice cream is high in fats and sugar, both of which hamper your sleep.
You also should avoid chocolatey desserts before bedtime. Certain types of chocolate contain tyrosine, which can keep you alert. Dark chocolate contains theobromine, a compound known to increase heart rate. This can also affect your ability to fall asleep.