soothing bedtime drinks
Consider including a sleepy drink ritual into your routine to help you wind down and get ready for bed. An evening drink may satisfy hunger without filling you up or putting pressure on your digestive system too late in the day.
1. Bedtime Tea
Certain teas can help both body and mind relax and sleep better. Chamomile tea contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to the brain receptors that decrease anxiety and promote sleep. It is most effective as a strong brew.
- Use 2 teabags, steep in a mug of hot water, cover and leave to brew for at least 20 minutes before drinking.
2. Turmeric Latte
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and digestive aid. This means your body is not having to work too hard which can hinder sleep. It can also lower blood sugar levels, which promotes better quality sleep. Use soothing plant milk rich in healthy fats, like coconut or hemp.
- Chop and add a thumb sized piece of fresh turmeric to a pan with 4 black
peppercorns and a mug of milk. Bring to a rolling boil, remove from the
heat, cover, leave to brew for 15 minutes. Sieve into a mug and enjoy.
3. Natural Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is often associated with childhood and evoking feelings of comfort. The sugar content in many branded drinks will spike blood sugars and hinder sleep. A natural alternative still sparks those nurturing memories as well as promoting relaxation by lowering blood sugars and releasing slow-burning fatty acids, helping to alleviate mental stress.
- Add 3 medjool dates, 1 tbsp cacao powder, 5 whole raw cashew nuts and 1 cup of hot water to a high-speed blender. Blend for 1 minute, pour into a mug and enjoy.
3. Evening Milkshake
Potassium-rich, slow-burning bananas are good for calming the nervous system along with magnesium, also found in oats and almonds, which helps relax muscles. A great way to satisfy evening hunger without adding too much stress to the digestive system.
- Add 1 (unripe) banana, I cup of almond milk, 2 tbsp oats, 1 tsp raw
honey, ½ tsp cinnamon to a high-speed blender. Blend until smooth,
pour into a glass and enjoy.
