Do you have trouble falling asleep, or just want a more restful night once you do? What you drink could affect that.
If the idea of a warm glass of milk to help you sleep is less than appetizing, you're in luck. Experts say that is not the only beverage option that could help with getting some quality sleep.
According to Matt Schmitt, A doctor of medicine in Georgia, you'll want to reach for food and drinks that have certain minerals, therapeutic herbs and essential amino acids. They can aid your body's production of serotonin and melatonin, important for regulating your sleep.
Here are a few you might want to try:
- Chamomile tea, a natural sedative and sleep aid
- Ashwagandha tea, traditionally used in Indian ayurvedic alternative medicine to calm the nerves
- Valerian root tea, used to treat things like insomnia and anxiety
- Warm milk, known for helping your body produce melatonin
- Almond milk, if you don't do well with dairy, try this replacement
- Cherry juice, another possible drink that may help increase your melatonin levels
Other things to remember, don't eat or drink at least two hours before bedtime to avoid trips to the bathroom and heartburn throughout the night. You should stay away from alcohol and caffeine in the evening hours.
