It’s 9 pm, and you’re sifting through your fridge for something to drink as you wind down for the night. There’s cans of Pepsi in the back, a carton of milk on the side, that fancy bottle of wine you’re saving for a special occasion, and more. Which drink should you pick?
Well, first off, back away from the wine! While alcohol may help you fall asleep faster, it reduces critical REM sleep that helps your body rejuvenate and may cause you to wake up periodically during the night. As a result, you’d experience drowsiness like no other the next morning. Even worse, it impairs breathing and can trigger sleep apnea. Bad news all around.
If you’re planning on heading to bed soon, aim for a beverage containing calming ingredients like calcium, magnesium, or vitamin B. We’ve compiled our top five drinks for relaxation, so get ready to fill up your mug and drift to sleep.
Almond milk
While regular cow milk has long been viewed as the best drink before sleep, almond milk is a dairy-free, lower-calorie option that works even better. It’s a great source of calcium, which helps the body produce melatonin, a hormone that helps control your sleep and wake cycles. Almond milk also contains a big dose of magnesium, a mineral that helps regulate sleep by settling down the body. Just be sure to look for an unsweetened version to reap the full benefits.
Cherry juice
Cherries aren’t just for topping off your sundae. Cherry juice, especially when made with tart cherries, helps induce sleepiness because of its high level of melatonin and anti-inflammatory agents. One study showed that adults who drank 2 glasses of tart cherry juice every day slept an average of 40 minutes longer than those who did not. Other results from the study include increased sleep quality, fewer sleep interruptions, and decreased levels of insomnia.
Chamomile tea
Why go for afternoon tea when you can enjoy evening tea? A hot cup of chamomile tea promotes restful sleep because of tryptophan, an amino acid proven to act as a sedative by helping the mind and body relax. It also contains apigenin, a flavonoid that combats anxiety and causes a mild sedative effect. If you can find chamomile tea with lavender, that’s even better!
Sip it half an hour before your bedtime and wait for its calming effect to kick in. You’ll wake up energized and in a lighter mood the next morning.
Coconut water
Along with being a great hydrator, coconut water contains high levels of potassium and magnesium. This nutrient duo works together to improve your sleep, so you can relax right away. Coconut water also has some B vitamins that help reduce stress. What more can you ask for out of a coconut?
Banana smoothie
Blend together a banana and a splash of almond milk for a sweet yet soothing treat. With almond milk’s aforementioned benefits and banana’s high amounts of potassium and magnesium, you’ll sleep like a baby in no time.
After downing your relaxing beverage of choice, just remember to use the bathroom before you head to bed, and you’ll be set for a good night’s rest.