You Won't Believe This One Mistake People Make With Coffee That's Ruining Their Sleep (and It's Not What You Think!)
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Coffee Killer: This One Habit is Ruining Your Sleep (and It's Not What You Think!) |
Coffee is the elixir of life for many, the fuel that gets us going in the morning. But what if your beloved cup of joe is actually sabotaging your sleep? It's true! While the caffeine in coffee gives you an energy boost, there's a hidden culprit affecting your ability to catch those Zzz's – and it's not just the time of day you drink it.
The Sneaky Sleep Stealer: Afternoon Coffee Reheats!
We've all been there: You brew a pot of coffee in the morning, then reach for a leftover cup in the afternoon for a pick-me-up. Seems harmless, right? Wrong! Reheating coffee can significantly increase its acidity [1]. This acidic surge can wreak havoc on your digestive system, making it harder to fall asleep later [2].
So, what's the solution? Ditch the reheated java and embrace these coffee-loving sleep hacks!
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The Iced Coffee Switch: Craving an afternoon pick-me-up? Skip the reheated coffee and opt for a refreshing iced coffee instead. The cooler temperature can be more soothing, and the caffeine content is typically lower [3]
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Cold Brew Magic: Cold brew coffee is a less acidic alternative to traditional coffee. The slow steeping process reduces acidity while maintaining a bold flavor [4]. Enjoy it cold in the afternoon, or even try a hot version for a less acidic evening treat.
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The Power of Planning: Brew a smaller pot of coffee in the morning, or portion it out into individual servings to avoid the temptation of reheating later.
But Wait, There's More! Beyond the Coffee Cup:
While coffee reheating is a sneaky sleep disruptor, it's not the only factor to consider. Here are some additional tips for a good night's rest:
- Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Wind down before bed with calming activities like reading or taking a warm bath. Avoid screens for at least an hour before sleep [5].
- Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Invest in blackout curtains and earplugs if needed [6].
- Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity can improve sleep quality, but avoid intense workouts close to bedtime [7].
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress can significantly impact sleep. Try relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga to unwind before bed [8].
Sweet Dreams Are Made of This!
By ditching the reheated coffee and incorporating these tips into your routine, you can create a sleep-friendly environment and finally conquer those pesky nights of tossing and turning. So ditch the lukewarm coffee and say hello to a restful night's sleep!
Sources:
- [1] National Coffee Association USA: https://www.quora.com/Does-coffee-undergo-a-chemical-change-after-microwave-reheating-that-affects-its-taste
- [2] Sleep Foundation: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6292246/
- [3] International Journal of Food Science and Technology: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519490/
- [4] National Coffee Association USA: https://www.ncausa.org/Industry-Resources/Cold-Brew
- [5] Sleep Foundation: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/
- [6] Sleep Foundation: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/
- [7] Mayo Clinic: [invalid URL removed]
- [8] American Psychological Association: https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/stress-management
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