Bartender Tony Conigliaro’s new beverage book is called “The Cocktail Lab,” and he’s not speaking figuratively.Craving more zzzz’s? Some of the things you eat and drink can help you get more rest; others can work against you.
What you eat
Green light
Calcium and carbohydrate-rich foods promote the effects of tryptophan, a sleep-promoting amino acid. Try apples with peanut butter, cheese and crackers or cereal and milk.
Magnesium also helps. Eat nuts, seeds, bananas, whole grains and avocado.
Red light
Anything overly spicy, heavy or greasy wreak havoc on your digestive system.
Sorry, chocoholics – the caffeine in chocolate may stand in the way of you and a good night’s sleep.
What you drink
Mom was right – the calcium in milk is good for your bones and for sleep. Hot chocolate, cow’s milk or calcium fortified soy or almond milk are good options.
The stimulating effects of caffeinated beverages can linger for hours. Cut yourself off six hours before bed.
Too much of any liquid disrupts sleep with trips to the bathroom.
Alcohol leads to a less restful sleep.
