Sleep Foods: What and When to Eat

Food and drinks that help or harm sleep
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Foods That Help or Harm Sleep
Day 5: Foods That Help or Harm Sleep
What is a good bedtime snack? How long should you wait to lie down after a heavy meal? Although the science on food and sleep isn't solid, being mindful of what -- and when -- you eat and drink may help.

Your digestion slows down when you sleep, so it makes sense to limit high-fat foods that will tax your system and make you uncomfortable. The most notorious sleep-disrupting ingredient is caffeine, which you should avoid at least 4-6 hours before bed. The same goes for alcohol, which can help you fall asleep faster but interferes with deep sleep and often wakes you up just a few hours later.

Each person is different, so it may help to keep a diary of what and when you eat and drink to see if it bothers you. If you suffer from heartburn, there are steps you can take to get nighttime relief.

Tomorrow, we'll tell you what you need to know to create a healthy bedroom for sleep.
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