An NHS GP has shared that your favourite festive beverage might actually be good for you. Dr Tim Mercer, an NHS GP partner and trainer, suggests that while we often overindulge during the holiday season, certain foods and drinks can promote better sleep. He explained: “Turkey, rich in tryptophan, can naturally aid relaxation and sleepiness, making it a great main course for winding down.”
But there’s more to the story – a popular seasonal drink could also be beneficial. In collaboration with Opera Beds, Dr Mercer highlighted that hot chocolate “can be sleep-supportive if you opt for a lower-sugar or caffeine-free version”. He elaborated: “Using milk as the base provides tryptophan, which promotes melatonin and serotonin production to support relaxation and sleep. Warm milk is also soothing and can signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.”
For a sleep-conducive treat, he advises: “To keep it sleep-friendly, consider making your hot chocolate with pure cocoa powder, which has minimal caffeine compared to dark chocolate. Sweeten it lightly with honey or a small amount of sugar, as too much sugar can cause a spike in blood sugar, potentially disrupting sleep later.”
According to the health expert, almonds and walnuts are festive foods that can also aid in getting a good night’s sleep. He explained: “almonds are a natural source of melatonin and magnesium”, with the latter “shown to improve sleep quality, especially in people who have trouble sleeping, making almonds a great evening snack”, reports the Mirror.
As for walnuts, they contain “tryptophan which the body converts to melatonin, helping to regulate your sleep-wake cycle. They also provide a healthy source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are thought to support brain health and can indirectly contribute to better sleep.”
Additionally, cherries and cranberries can also help promote sleep. Cherries are a natural source of melatonin so consuming them or their juice can assist in achieving restful sleep. As for cranberries – whether in sauce or something else – the fruit is beneficial due to their high vitamin C and melatonin content. With all these fruits providing essential vitamins and melatonin, they are perfect to incorporate into your diet this Christmas, he advised.