There are many causes of insomnia and some of them are diet related. People that suffer from eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia and even obesity also often have insomnia or other problems sleeping. Obviously, those disorders require more care than tips on what to eat to prevent insomnia. Disruptive sleep patterns may be a sign that you are deficient in certain nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, and many B vitamins. For the rest of us , there are foods to avoid and dietary advice for preventing insomnia:
- Avoid caffeine late in the day. This includes coffee, tea, sodas, and chocolate.
- Cut back on alcohol consumption. It may seem relaxing at first, but usually causes sleep problems later
- Eat a lighter meal in the evening. Keep it healthy!
- Don't go to bed hungry.
Certain herbs are beneficial in promoting sleep and can be used in making bed-time teas. Some of these are valerian root, camomile, lemon balm and lavender. Of course, many of these herbs are available in ready-made teas you can buy in any grocery store.
