Drinks like coffee, tea, energy drinks, and some sodas contain caffeine, a stimulant that can interfere with sleep. Consuming caffeine close to bedtime can make it harder to fall asleep and may cause restlessness or wakefulness during the night.
Spicy dishes can cause indigestion or acid reflux, leading to discomfort and disrupted sleep. They may also increase body temperature, which can interfere with the body's ability to cool down for sleep.
Foods high in sugar, especially when consumed close to bedtime, can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, leading to wakefulness during the night. They can also disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.
Eating large, heavy meals or high-fat foods before bedtime can lead to discomfort and indigestion, making it harder to fall asleep. These foods can also cause acid reflux, disturbing sleep.
While alcohol might initially make you feel sleepy, it can disrupt the later stages of sleep and result in fragmented or poor-quality sleep. It can also contribute to waking up during the night and experiencing vivid dreams or nightmares.
Some types of aged cheeses contain the amino acid tyramine, which can trigger the release of norepinephrine, a brain stimulant that might disrupt sleep in sensitive individuals.
Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, which are stimulants that can interfere with sleep, especially if consumed in large amounts or close to bedtime.
For those prone to acid reflux or heartburn, spicy, acidic, or highly processed foods can trigger symptoms, leading to discomfort and disturbed sleep.