There is a standard list of bedtime “no-no” snacks and beverages available in the infographic “Foods That Keep You Up at Night.” Watching your intake will help you sleep more soundly and wake up more rested and alert. It may make the difference between disruption and harmony in your daily life. Bad habits have a persistent negative impact on health. They are hard to curb; but when the reality of their destructive power looms, you will want to make a supreme effort. It makes no sense to consume chocolate before retiring. It is loaded with sugar and caffeine (sometime more than coffee!). A boost of energy is not your evening goal.
Furthermore, too much liquid intake will keep you up and out of bed as the bathroom calls. Steak is to be avoided, not only for its fat and cholesterol content, but for its effect on circadian rhythm. Alcohol and fermented, spicy, and fried foods are definitely out. Many of these take a longer time to digest and some can cause a bout of heartburn. When in doubt, it is best to avoid them at least three hours prior to going to sleep. In the long run, you will lose interest in the savory snacks as you embrace better nighttime practices.
The infographic has been designed by noted internet health blogger Elliot Noteware, who has extensively written on AGC.
Filed under: Featured Press, Food, Health and Lifestyle Tagged: Biological Rhythms, Caffeine, Circadian rhythm, Conditions and Diseases, health, Journal of Neuroscience, Sleep disorder, University of Adelaide
