12 Foods That Can Keep You Awake At Night (Besides Caffeine)

Posted on 4/2/2023, 3:05:44 PM

Getting a good night's sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. However, many people struggle to fall and stay asleep, often due to consuming foods that can interfere with sleep. While most people are aware that caffeine can keep them up at night, there are several other foods that can have the same effect. In this article, we will explore 12 foods that can keep you awake at night (besides caffeine) and offer some tips for getting a better night's sleep.

1. Chocolate Chocolate is a popular snack that can be high in caffeine and other stimulants, including theobromine. While the amount of caffeine in chocolate varies depending on the type and brand, even small amounts can interfere with sleep. Additionally, chocolate is often high in sugar, which can cause blood sugar fluctuations that can also disrupt sleep.

2. Spicy Foods Spicy foods can cause heartburn and indigestion, which can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Capsaicin, the compound that gives chili peppers their heat, can also increase body temperature and cause sweating, both of which can interfere with sleep.

3. Fatty Foods Fatty foods, particularly those that are high in saturated and trans fats, can be difficult to digest and can cause indigestion and heartburn. Additionally, a high-fat meal can cause the body to produce more acid, which can also lead to indigestion and disrupt sleep.

4. Alcohol While alcohol can make you feel drowsy and help you fall asleep initially, it can disrupt the later stages of sleep, leading to more frequent awakenings during the night. Additionally, alcohol can cause dehydration, which can also interfere with sleep.

5. High-Sugar Foods Foods that are high in sugar can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, which can disrupt sleep. Additionally, sugar can increase adrenaline levels, leading to feelings of alertness and wakefulness.

6. Red Meat Red meat can be high in protein and fat, both of which can be difficult to digest and can cause indigestion and heartburn. Additionally, red meat is often high in tyramine, an amino acid that can stimulate the brain and interfere with sleep.

7. Cheese Cheese is often high in fat and can be difficult to digest, particularly for those who are lactose intolerant. Additionally, cheese is high in tyramine, which can interfere with sleep.

8. Tomatoes Tomatoes are often high in acidity, which can cause heartburn and indigestion. Additionally, tomatoes contain tyramine, which can stimulate the brain and interfere with sleep.

9. Citrus Fruits Citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruits, are often high in acidity, which can cause heartburn and indigestion. Additionally, citrus fruits are often high in vitamin C, which can increase energy levels and interfere with sleep.

10. Green Tea While green tea is often touted as a healthy beverage, it can contain caffeine and other stimulants that can interfere with sleep. Additionally, green tea is often high in antioxidants, which can increase energy levels and make it difficult to fall asleep.

11. Energy Bars Energy bars are often marketed as a healthy snack option, but they can be high in sugar, caffeine, and other stimulants. Additionally, many energy bars are high in protein, which can be difficult to digest and can interfere with sleep.

12. Fried Foods Fried foods are often high in fat and can be difficult to digest, leading to indigestion and heartburn. Additionally, fried foods can cause the body to produce more acid, which can also lead to indigestion and disrupt sleep.

In conclusion, there are several foods that can interfere with sleep besides caffeine. While it may be difficult to completely avoid these foods, particularly if they are part of your regular diet, there are some steps you can take to minimize their impact on your sleep.

First, try to avoid consuming these foods in the evening or close to bedtime. It is best to have your last meal or snack at least 2-3 hours before you plan to go to sleep.

Second, if you do consume these foods, try to balance them with healthier options. For example, if you have a piece of chocolate, pair it with some nuts or fruit to help balance out the sugar and caffeine.

Third, be mindful of portion sizes. Eating too much of any food, even if it is healthy, can cause discomfort and make it difficult to fall asleep.

Finally, if you consistently struggle with getting a good night's sleep, it may be worth talking to your doctor or a sleep specialist to rule out any underlying sleep disorders or medical conditions.

In summary, while there are several foods that can interfere with sleep besides caffeine, with some simple adjustments to your diet and lifestyle, you can improve the quality of your sleep and wake up feeling more refreshed and energized.

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