Two experts cite less suggested foods to be consumed directly before bedtime and both agreed that chocolate is not a good idea.
"I learned not to eat chocolate after 5pm, only after I suffered," says doctor Erin Strokes. While dark chocolate is considered to have the most health benefits and contains antioxidants that can help reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels, it is best to eat it as a "lunch dessert".
Chocolate contains caffeine, which makes it difficult to fall asleep and makes you not go into the deep sleep stages you need to feel like you have really rested.
Of course, eating a few squares of dark chocolate is not exactly the same as consuming an energy drink before bed for example, however people can feel the effects.
"Remember that every body is different and someone may want espresso coffee to get a good night's sleep, while someone else can stay up all night with just a piece of chocolate."
Stokes says it is generally best to stop eating at least three hours before bed, giving your body enough time to digest food before going to bed.
Eating a large meal, however, it, just before bedtime, has the potential to disrupt your sleep, but on the other hand, even going to bed hungry can have the same effect. If you are definitely eating something before bed, skip the chocolate and choose something that can help you sleep better, like a banana with peanut butter.
Source: Well & Good
