Insomnia, sometimes caused by diet, can result from improper eating before bed. Traditional Chinese medicine reminds us that reasonable pre-sleep eating habits are essential for health. Below, we point out 6 types of food that can cause insomnia; eating too much of them before bed will keep you awake.
1. Caffeinated beverages
As is well known, caffeine has long been considered the main culprit causing insomnia. However, Michelle Dudas, a registered dietitian in the US, states that while caffeine does not add any energy to the body, it is indeed a stimulant that increases alertness and makes it difficult to sleep.
2. Spicy food
Eating too much spicy food for dinner can lead to sleep problems. For those with heartburn, consuming spicy food before lying down can worsen the condition and affect sleep. Therefore, experts recommend eating spicy food earlier in the day rather than later.
3. Cheese
Nutrition experts explain that cheese contains a large amount of the amino acid tyramine. Tyramine helps the body produce the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain, which can make the brain more alert and make it harder to fall asleep.
4. Processed or smoked meats
Experts state that processed meats contain a large amount of tyramine, which can cause the brain to produce exciting dopamine. In addition to disrupting sleep, processed or smoked meats are also among the least healthy junk foods.
5. Alcohol
Alcohol has a sedative effect, but strangely, it can make it difficult to fall asleep at night. Experts explain that many people drink alcohol to relax, but it actually interferes with the body's ability to enter the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) deep sleep stage. Because of this, many people may fall into a deep sleep after drinking, yet still feel groggy the next day.
6. Ginseng tea
While some herbal teas have a sedative effect, it's best to avoid ginseng. Some people have no reaction after drinking ginseng tea, but others may experience insomnia and elevated blood pressure. Experts recommend avoiding ginseng tea for several hours before bed.