We know to avoid coffee and chocolate before bedtime since both contain caffeine and can keep you awake at night. But what to replace those delicious options with?
There are some drinks that can actually help set you up for a sleepy night of slumber.Food and drinks that contain certain minerals, therapeutic herbs and tryptophan - an essential amino acid - can aid your body's production of serotonin and melatonin.
Two general rules apply: Stop eating and drinking at least two hours before bed so you can avoid trips to the bathroom and heartburn throughout the night. Avoid caffeine past 2 p.m. and evening alcohol
Chamomile tea
Is it time for a cup of chamomile? Chamomile tea is a sedative and sleep aid
Ashwagandha tea
Ashwagandha, a revered herb of Indian ayurvedic alternative medicine, has traditionally been used to calm the nerves. It might work by mimicking the function of gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that inhibits excited responses.
Valerian root tea
Originally hailing from Europe and Asia, valerian is a plant used to treat insomnia, anxiety, depression and menopause symptoms.
Warm milk and golden milk tea
Thanks to the tryptophan, calcium and magnesium in dairy, drinking warm milk before bed may help you sleep better. The warmth makes the beverage more soothing and easier to digest
Lemon balm tea
Lemon balm, a lemon-scented herb that derives from the same family as mint, has been traditionally used for improving mood in addition to flavoring meat, seafood and baked goods
