The Top Ten Foods to Avoid if You’re Struggling to Fall Asleep

The fast-paced life often leaves people struggling with insomnia. In such situations, we rarely consider how our dietary habits could be exacerbating the condition.

Administrator

22 December, 2024

Be mindful of these common dietary mistakes that can disrupt your sleep. The following article highlights 10 foods and drinks that may be detrimental to a good night’s rest.

Alcohol

Contrary to popular belief, alcohol does not help you sleep better. In fact, the alcohol content can prevent your body from entering deep sleep, resulting in a less restful and refreshing slumber. You may also wake up feeling groggy and less alert the next morning.

Alcohol can disrupt sleep patterns

Vitamin C

While Vitamin C is essential for health, excessive intake can be harmful. Consuming large amounts of Vitamin C-rich fruits in the evening can stimulate your brain, making it harder to fall asleep.

Avoid Vitamin C-rich fruits at night

Spicy Foods

Spicy and acidic foods can increase your body temperature and significantly impact your sleep quality. If you struggle with insomnia, it’s best to avoid spicy dishes, especially in the evening. People with heart conditions should also refrain from consuming excessive amounts of spicy foods.

Spicy foods can raise body temperature and disrupt sleep

Bacon

Bacon is a popular breakfast item, but it’s not ideal for those who struggle with sleep. The high salt content and tyrosine in bacon can stimulate the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that promotes excitement. Additionally, bacon is not the healthiest option.

Bacon is tasty but not sleep-friendly

Ginseng Tea

While ginseng tea has its benefits, such as relieving stress and improving athletic performance, it’s not suitable for those with insomnia. Additionally, people with high blood pressure should avoid drinking ginseng tea in the afternoon or evening.

Ginseng tea is a no-go for insomniacs

Foods That Cause Bloating and Indigestion

Bloating and indigestion can worsen insomnia. Therefore, it’s best to avoid foods that commonly cause these issues, such as cabbage, broccoli, apples, beans, and carbonated drinks, even if they are readily available in your refrigerator.

Avoid bloating and indigestion-causing foods

Greasy Foods

The convenience of fast food and fried dishes is undeniable, but these foods are often prepared with excessive amounts of oil. This overloads the digestive system and interferes with the body’s rest during the night.

Greasy foods overload the digestive system

Watery Foods

Foods with high water content can fill your bladder and stimulate kidney function, leading to frequent nighttime urination. Stay away from watery foods like soup and porridge.

Avoid watery foods at night

Coffee

Coffee is a well-known stimulant that can keep you alert, so it’s not surprising that it’s not recommended for those with insomnia. While a morning cup of coffee can be energizing, it’s best to limit your intake if you have sleep issues. Avoid coffee close to bedtime.

Coffee contains stimulants that hinder sleep

Milk Chocolate

Milk chocolate has a similar effect to coffee, as it can make you more alert and mentally sharp. Therefore, it’s best avoided by those who have trouble sleeping.

Milk chocolate can make you more alert

In summary, be mindful of your food choices and opt for options that promote a good night’s rest. If you know of any other foods that can disrupt sleep, feel free to share them in the comments below!