Be Aware of the Six Foods That Cause Insomnia
Introduction: Insomnia can sometimes be caused by diet. Improper eating before bed can lead to insomnia. Traditional Chinese medicine reminds us that reasonable eating before bed is essential for health. Below, we point out 6 foods that can keep you awake, so avoid eating too much of them before sleep.
1. Caffeinated Beverages
As is well known, caffeine has long been considered the main culprit for insomnia. However, Michelle Dudas, a registered dietitian in the U.S., explains that while caffeine doesn't provide the body with any energy, it is indeed a stimulant that increases alertness and makes it difficult to fall asleep.
2. Spicy Foods
Eating too much spicy food for dinner can cause sleep problems. For those who suffer from heartburn, consuming spicy foods and then lying down can worsen the condition and affect sleep. Therefore, experts recommend eating spicy foods earlier in the day rather than later.
3. Cheese
Nutrition experts point out that cheese contains a large amount of the amino acid tyramine. In the body, tyramine helps produce the brain neurotransmitter dopamine, which makes the brain more alert and makes it harder to fall asleep.
4. Processed or Smoked Meats
Experts state that processed meats contain a high amount of tyramine, which can cause the brain to produce stimulating dopamine. Besides 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 to relax, but alcohol actually prevents the body from entering the deep REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep stage. Because of this, many people fall into a deep sleep after drinking but still feel groggy the next day.
6. Ginseng Tea
Some herbal teas have sedative effects. However, it's best to avoid adding ginseng. While some people may not have any reaction to ginseng tea, others may experience insomnia and increased blood pressure. Experts recommend avoiding ginseng tea for several hours before bed.