Post: 8 Foods You Should Never Eat Before Bed

Steer clear of these foods for superior shuteye.

Getting a restful night’s sleep is no small feat in this day and age of high stress, busy schedules, and plenty of screen time. In fact, an entire market of supplements and products aimed at helping us sleep better has developed as a result.

But a food-first approach can be just as beneficial in encouraging a good night’s sleep in many circumstances. And while those invested in getting their eight hours of shut eye might focus on eating foods that encourage sleep prior to bed, it’s equally as important to pay attention to what foods should be avoided for healthy sleep. These sleep-interfering foods could very well be what’s keeping you up at night.

We’re here to help with eight of the top sleep-depriving foods to steer clear of ideally two hours (or more) before bedtime. Kristen Carli , MS, RD, a registered dietitian and owner of Camelback Nutrition & Wellness

Chocolate

Choco almond cake and patry fork on paper plate Although chocolate is what many of us crave late at night, if you consistently enjoy it before bed it may be the culprit for why you’re having trouble falling asleep. This is due to the fact that this sweet treat is rich in both caffeine and added sugar. “ Sugar is another nutrient that can negatively affect sleep, as it can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels, leading to increased arousal and difficulty staying asleep,” says Carli. But this doesn’t mean your nightly chocolate is out of the question, simply try to enjoy it a few hours before it’s time to hit the sack. Caffeinated Tea

While this may seem like a no brainer, some may not realize that the caffeine in our after dinner tea could be what’s keeping us awake at night. Although tea can be anywhere from 50 to 70 percent lower in caffeine than coffee, the caffeine it does contain can still have a significant impact – especially for those sensitive to the stimulant. “Caffeine is a well-known sleep disruptor because it blocks adenosine receptors in the […]

8 Foods You Should Never Eat Before Bed