There are a lot of factors that contribute to a good night’s sleep – room temperature, amount of light in the room, pillows and the mattress. Even the foods we eat before bed time play an important role in the quality of our sleep. You may not have noticed, but if you have a habit of snacking before getting into bed, the quality of your sleep may be greatly affected. This habit is unhealthy and when you have difficulty sleeping well, you will be tempted to use sleeping aids making matters worse.

1. Cereal

Not all cereals are healthy and they must be avoided before bed time. These types of cereals are those with high amounts of sugar content and that will only make you restless in bed. Since cereals provide additional carbohydrates which will not burn off while you sleep, it will break down into unwanted body fat.

2. Chocolate

Chocolate is the perfect comfort food that almost everyone loves to eat and drink. However, chocolate often contains small amounts of caffeine and tyrosine that can stimulate brain activity.

3. Ice Cream

As a comfort food that seems appropriate while watching television or whenever depressed, ice cream must never be considered as a late night snack. The main reason for this is the sugar content which is a high stimulant. Sadly, ice cream will only prevent you from sleeping and keep your brain working at full speed.

4. Spicy Dishes

Snacks and other foods that have spice and chili are extremely appetizing for many. Unfortunately, they can trigger heartburn and indigestion. This will affect sleep because your digestive system slows down once you lay down to sleep. If you really need to feast on spicy dishes, make sure you have plenty of time to digest it.

5. Pizza

This is a popular night snack that is delicious, affordable and very easy to order. Pizza may be appealing, but it contains sky rocketing amounts of grease that are produced when the pizza is being baked. Digesting pieces of pizza will be tough at night especially when you go to bed too soon.

6. Smoked Meats

A sandwich may be a healthy late night snack, but if you will be adding ham or bacon, it will not be one. Preserved and smoked meats contain tyramine which is an amino acid that triggers the brain to release a natural brain stimulant called norepinephrine. If you really do want to snack on a meaty but healthy sandwich opt for turkey instead.

Sleep Better By Snacking Right

If you need to snack before going to bed, eat small amounts of healthy foods that contain tryptophan which is an essential amino acid that helps us rest. These foods are:

• Asparagus
• Mustard greens
• Tofu
• Yogurt
• Nuts
• Eggs
• Chicken
• Turkey
• Shrimp
• White rice
• Wheat
• Potatoes
• Whole grain cereal without high amounts of sugar
• Bananas

Aside from snacking right before bed time you need to make sure that your sleeping surface and environment encourages restful sleep. Invest in a firm mattress that offers support for maximum comfort and keep away from very soft pillows. Make sure your room is dark, well ventilated, noise-free and slightly cool. When you combine all the factors that contribute to a good night’s sleep, you will no longer have to toss and turn at night.

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About the Author: Valerie Collins is a freelance writer specializing in wellness, health and the benefits of mattresses. She regularly offers information and advice related to sleeping disorders and maintaining a proper diet to sleep better for Portland mattress stores websites.