Have you ever felt extremely tired after eating sugar? Maybe it was a rich dessert you enjoyed after dinner, or a late-night snack to help you forget the stressful day you had to endure. We’ve all been there. However, with Halloween right around the corner, we decided to take a moment to talk about some of the facts behind eating those delicious sweets before bed, and how dipping into the trick-or-treat bag can turn a fun, spooky night into a horrifying one.
It Can Negatively Impact Your Sleep
Studies have shown that high sugary foods before bed can significantly lower the quality of your sleep. This is mainly due to the fact that when you eat sugar, your body’s blood sugar begins to spike, and you gain a small burst of energy. Aside from this being a bit counterproductive for someone who is about to go to bed, the downside to any sugar-induced energy boost is the inevitable crash that comes shortly after. Yes, you can crash from a sugar rush, even if you are already fast asleep. This is also why you sometimes feel tired after eating. When this dreaded crash occurs, the body will release the stress hormone, cortisol, and the side effects from this can manifest in a number of different ways (nightmares, night sweats, teeth grinding, etc.). So, before you give in to the temptation of a late-night snack, take a look at the clock, and make sure you give yourself at least two hours for your body to process the indulgence before turning out the lights.
It Can Ruin Your Entire Day
Of all the things we shouldn’t do the night before we have to get up early for work, you might not have guessed that sugar would rank very high on that list. Aside from getting your day off to a bad start after a restless night of sleep, your body will have an exceptionally difficult time waking up and feeling alert the next morning. This is because the body produces a chemical known as orexin. Orexin is the chemical that helps stimulate your body and helps your brain feel awake. Studies have shown that people who consume high levels of sugar will produce significantly lower levels of orexin in the morning, causing them to feel more tired throughout the day, and become more dependent on caffeinated beverages to feel alert.
Visit Jacksonville Sleep Center Today!
If you feel life is preventing you from getting a good night’s sleep, Jacksonville Sleep Center is here to help you get your sleep back on track. Our highly qualified team of doctors such as Dr. Peter Nassar, the Medical Director at Jacksonville Sleep Center, specialize in a wide array of sleep conditions. Dr. Nura Festic is a Board Certified Sleep Medicine Physician and has a wide array of sleep expertise. We are able to provide you with the best experience possible with our dedicated staff. Visit our website or call today to make your appointment.
