Food + Drink
CAFFEINE & SLEEP.
Caffeine is a well-known sleep disruptor, but its effects can linger longer than we think. Consuming coffee, tea, or energy drinks late in the afternoon or evening can interfere with your ability to fall asleep.
Caffeine blocks adenosine, a chemical in the brain that promotes sleep, leading to restlessness and difficulty staying asleep. To improve sleep, it’s essential to limit caffeine intake in the afternoon and opt for caffeine-free alternatives in the evening.
SUGARY FOODS AND SLEEP.
Eating sugary snacks or heavy meals close to bedtime can wreak havoc on your sleep. When you consume high-sugar foods, your blood sugar levels spike and then crash, which can lead to wakefulness in the middle of the night.
This fluctuation disrupts your natural sleep cycles, leaving you feeling tired the next day. To support better sleep, it’s best to avoid sugary snacks before bed and opt for lighter, balanced options that promote steady blood sugar levels.
HYDRATION AND SLEEP.
Staying hydrated is important for overall health, but drinking too much water right before bed can disrupt your sleep with frequent trips to the bathroom. On the flip side, dehydration can cause dry mouth, leg cramps, or headaches that interfere with rest.
The key is to find a balance by drinking plenty of water throughout the day but reducing intake in the hour before bed. This way, you stay hydrated without causing sleep disruptions.
