Foods That Secretly Sabotage Your Sleep

3. The Unexpected Wakefulness from Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can be a flavorful addition to any meal, but they might not be the best choice for dinner if you're aiming for a restful night. Spices such as chili peppers contain capsaicin, which can raise your body temperature and interfere with sleep. Additionally, spicy foods can cause indigestion or heartburn, which are known to disrupt sleep. The discomfort from these symptoms can keep you tossing and turning, preventing you from falling into a deep sleep. If you enjoy spicy meals, try to consume them at lunchtime instead of dinner to give your body ample time to digest them before bedtime.

4. The Surprising Sleep Saboteur: Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a staple in many healthy diets, providing vitamins and antioxidants. However, they also contain tyramine, an amino acid that increases the production of norepinephrine, a brain stimulant. Consuming tomatoes or tomato-based products like sauces and soups in the evening can boost brain activity, making it harder to wind down and fall asleep. This effect is particularly pronounced in those sensitive to tyramine. To avoid this issue, consider having tomato-based dishes earlier in the day, or opt for other vegetables in your evening meals that won't interfere with your sleep.