Bad bedtime habits: 5 things you should avoid before bed

Even though we all love sleeping after a long day, many of us find it difficult to drift off. We all know how important a good night’s sleep is, but if you feel like you aren’t getting the sleep you need to keep you well rested and full of energy it could be time to take a look at the food and drink you are having before you go to bed.

1. High-fat foods
Of course we all love the occasional midnight feast, but eating high-fat foods late at night could be keeping you awake because it takes so long for the body to digest them. Avoid eating things such as fried food and ice cream before you plan on going to bed, you will get a better night’s sleep.

2. Alcohol
Even though the Saturday night out, where one drink quickly turned into four can make you feel drowsy and ready to collapse into bed the second you take your high heels off, it is important to remember that alcohol is not good for a peaceful night’s sleep. It disturbs it and you will not wake up feeling fresh and revitalised.

3. Sugary foods
The high sugar levels in foods such as chocolate bars can cause nightmares for many people due to the sugar affecting the brain. We don’t think it’s worth the monster lurking under the bed later on.

4. Dark chocolate
Despite the fact that dark chocolate is probably the healthiest chocolate option on a daily basis, it contains caffeine and theobromine which will keep your energy levels up. Avoid dark chocolate at night and have milk or white chocolate as an alternative.

5. Coffee
It sounds obvious, we know. However, we still drink tea and coffee before bed even though we shouldn’t. The caffeine keeps us on a buzz so if you’re a caffeine addict and need an early night, try drinking your last cup a few hours earlier.

 

Following these tips is easier said than done but it will definitely be worth it when you wake up feeling totally refreshed.