In previous articles written here on the Mattress King websitesite, we have discussed various reasons why certain people struggle to enjoy a good night’s sleep. There are many reasons; some being medical which we don’t delve much into as it’s not our expertise, and really you should consult your doctor. However, there are other influences that affect our sleep which we can figure out ways to improve.
In previous articles written here on the Mattress King website, we have discussed various reasons why certain people struggle to enjoy a good night’s sleep. There are many reasons; some being medical which we don’t delve much into as it’s not our expertise, and really you should consult your doctor. However, there are other influences that affect our sleep which we can figure out ways to improve.
One, of course, is replacing your bed for one that is better suited to your sleep pattern and posture. We are proud to be able to provide a FREE service to our customers called the Sleep Laboratory. A bed rigged with 1500 sensors that detect every contour and heat distribution from body contact, which then projects an image onto a screen and this allows our sleep experts to analyze, assess and then provide you with the best options that suit you and your budget.
But for now, let’s talk about what NOT to eat (or drink) before bed, shall we?
1. Alcohol
We’re sure you guessed it, right? “But it helps me fall asleep”, we hear you say. Well, the trouble with booze is that it leads to dehydration and can reduce the restorative sleep functions. It may lead to restlessness and have you counting sheep til the alarm clock goes off. Therefore, if you want to have a deep and long-lasting sleep, avoid overindulging before going to bed. Otherwise, the lack of sleep will leave you with bags under your eyes, telling you that alcohol is one of the worst things to consume before sleep. If you suffer from occasional or chronic insomnia, you should be aware that alcohol can make it worse in the long run.
2. Nut Butter
The likes of peanut butter, almond butter or any other sort can cause weight gain if you make it a regular bedtime snack. The benefit to peanut butter before bed is that it helps spike your testosterone and growth hormone levels – the hormone that has you feeling and looking young and vibrant.
However, if you have the munchies late at night, instead we suggest you drink a glass of unsweetened almond milk. Almond milk contains calcium that will help take away your cravings, calm your nerves, and help you sleep better. Sprinkle Cinnamon for added flavour, and your healthy and tasty bedtime snack is ready! If you still want to eat some peanut butter before bed, have a teaspoon instead.
3. Celery
Yes, we’re just as surprised to see celery on the list of the worst foods to eat before bedtime, but you should avoid it right before going to bed in order to have uninterrupted sleep. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with eating celery in the evening, but it’s a natural diuretic and it can increase your need to urinate more than usual.
Alternatively, you can reach for carrots instead. They are loaded with Vitamin A which is good for your skin and for your vision, and it won’t disturb your sleep. Try carrots, red bell peppers and a little bit of celery with homemade hummus for dinner.
4. Bread
If you’re trying to gain a few pounds, there are better options than bread. However, if you’re on a diet and trying to lose weight, stay away from this bedtime snack. Bread contains carbs and yeasts that can cause your body to put on weight, as well as crave more carbs and eat more at night due to the sugars and other processed ingredients designed to make bread last longer.
Naturally having a sandwich during the day isn’t a crisis, the problem is having it before bedtime. A better option would be a small bowl of oats sprinkled with cinnamon. This is also a carb source, but it will not induce the effects bread will. On a side note, avoid cereals for the same reasons, as they are laden with sugars and could potentially instigate cancer growth at a later stage.
5. Chocolate
Oh no!! But we all love having a block or 2 (for some it’s the whole slab), before bed. It’s oh so yummy! There’s no disputing that fact, however, chocolate is loaded with sugar and it does contain caffeine. It also contains stimulants such as Theobromine, which is well-known to make your heart race a little. This can definitely have an effect on your sleeping patterns and it can also cause sleep deprivation.
People who don’t get enough sleep each night tend to suffer from high levels of cortisol, which can cause muscle tissues to break down – usually a trigger from prolonged stress. Most people know that dark chocolate is the healthier option, however, according to some studies chocolate is one of the worst things to eat right before bedtime.
There are many more foods and beverages one should avoid before bed, such as carbonated drinks, pizza, pasta, red meat and more. But the thing to remember is to consume in moderation and least a couple hours prior to going to bed.