12 Foods That Are Quietly Sabotaging Your Sleep Quality

7. Some Fermented Foods (Late): The Histamine Hurdle

While often celebrated for gut health, certain highly fermented foods, especially when consumed late, can paradoxically sabotage sleep for some individuals. Varieties of sauerkraut, kimchi, or kombucha can contain higher levels of histamine and tyramine due to the fermentation process. For those with a histamine intolerance, these compounds can trigger neurological symptoms like restlessness or insomnia. This highlights the nuanced relationship between gut health and sleep, where a "healthy" food can become a sleep disruptor for a specific subset of people.

8. Tomatoes & Tomato-Based Sauces (Late): The Acidic & Amine Surprise

Tomatoes, particularly in sauces or large quantities close to bedtime, can be sleep saboteurs due to their acidity, which can trigger acid reflux. However, they also contain tyramine, an amino acid that can affect brain chemistry and alertness in sensitive individuals. While not a strong stimulant, the combination of potential heartburn and a subtle stimulating effect from tyramine can make falling asleep difficult. Opting for lighter, non-acidic fare in the evening avoids this dual sleep-disrupting action.