Last Updated on November 2, 2022 by theworldofsleepstaff
There are times when you can’t sleep. You toss and turn and count sheep, but nothing seems to work. But before you reach for that sleeping pill, try eating a cantaloupe.
Before you baulk at the idea of eating fruit before bed, consider this: cantaloupes are a great source of nutrients that can help you sleep better. For one, they’re a good source of vitamin C. This nutrient is essential for helping your body produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep.
Intrigued? This article will explore the benefits of eating cantaloupe before bed, as well as the potential cons, FAQs and more!
Note: This article is informational and does not constitute medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare professional before beginning any new treatment program.
The 11 Benefits of Eating a Cantaloupe Before Bed
Eating a cantaloupe before bed comes with a host of benefits. Here are 11 of them:
1. It’s A Natural Sleep Aid
As mentioned, cantaloupes are an excellent source of vitamin C. This nutrient helps your body to produce serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate sleep. Serotonin is also known as the “happy hormone” because it promotes feelings of well-being and relaxation.
Instead of taking pills, why not try eating a cantaloupe before bed and letting nature take its course?
2. It’s Hydrating
Cantaloupes are made up of 90% water, which makes them a great way to stay hydrated. When you’re well-hydrated, your body can function at its best. This includes promoting better sleep.
So, if you’re struggling to sleep, ensure you drink enough water during the day and consider eating a cantaloupe before bed.
3. It’s A Good Source Of Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone that is responsible for regulating our sleep-wake cycle. Cantaloupes are a good source of this hormone, which means that eating one before bed can help to promote better sleep.
This benefit is even better because melatonin is a natural sleep aid. This means you won’t have to worry about harmful side effects when eating cantaloupe before bed.
Recommended: 11 Reasons Why Should Start Drinking Ginger Tea Before Bed Today
4. It’s A Good Source Of Vitamins & Minerals
In addition to being a good source of vitamin C, cantaloupes are also a good source of other vitamins and minerals. These include vitamins A, B6, and potassium. All of these nutrients are important for promoting better sleep.
Getting these vitamins and minerals from a cantaloupe is a great way to ensure you get all the nutrients you need for a good night’s sleep.
5. It’s Low In Calories
If you’re watching your weight, you’ll be happy to know that cantaloupes are low in calories. For example, a single cup of cantaloupe contains only 60 calories. This makes it a great bedtime snack for those trying to lose weight.
Plus, the high water content of cantaloupes will help to keep you feeling full and satisfied, so you won’t be tempted to reach for unhealthy snacks in the middle of the night.
6. It’s A Natural Diuretic
Cantaloupes are a natural diuretic, which means that they can help to promote better sleep. However, you’ll likely need to wake up to use the restroom while eating cantaloupe before bed. This can disrupt your sleep, but it’s a small price to pay for the benefits of cantaloupe.
7. It’s Rich In Antioxidants
Cantaloupes are rich in antioxidants, which are essential for promoting good health. These nutrients help to protect your cells from damage and can also help to improve your sleep quality.
Some essential antioxidants in cantaloupes include beta-carotene, lycopene, and vitamin C. All of these nutrients have been linked with better sleep.
8. It May Help To Reduce Stress Levels
Stress can hurt your sleep quality. If stressed, you may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
Luckily, cantaloupes can help to reduce stress levels. This is because the nutrients in cantaloupes can help to promote relaxation. So, if you’re feeling stressed out, eating a cantaloupe in the evening may help you to sleep better.
Read our previous article on tips to help you get to sleep if suffering with anxiety.
9. It Can Help To Relieve Muscle Cramps
If you’ve ever experienced muscle cramps, you know how painful they can be. Luckily, cantaloupes can help to relieve this pain. This is because the potassium in cantaloupes can help to relax your muscles.
Potassium is known as an electrolyte, which means that it helps to conduct electricity in your body. This is important for muscle function. When you don’t have enough potassium, your muscles can’t function properly, which can lead to cramping.
Eating a cantaloupe at night can help to replenish your body’s potassium levels and relieve muscle cramps.
10. It’s Delicious!
Cantaloupes are also delicious! This makes them a great bedtime snack that you’ll want to eat.
The sweetness of cantaloupes can help to satisfy your sweet tooth, and the high water content will help to keep you hydrated. So, if you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious bedtime snack, cantaloupes are a great option.
11. Good Source Of Fiber
Cantaloupes are a good source of fiber, and they can help you stay regular. Fiber is essential for digestive health and can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
Cantaloupes are also a good source of vitamins A and C, essential for immune system health. Eat cantaloupes as part of a healthy diet, and enjoy their sweet taste and nutritional benefits.
tHE Few Disadvantages of Eating a Cantaloupe Before Bed
While there are many benefits to eating a cantaloupe before bed, there are a few disadvantages to consider.
1. Sugar Content
For one, cantaloupes are high in sugar. This means they can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, disrupting sleep. Additionally, overeating sugar before bed can lead to weight gain.
2. Digestive Issues
Cantaloupes are also high in fibre, which can cause digestive issues for some people. If you’re prone to digestive issues, you may want to avoid eating a cantaloupe at night.
3. Allergies
Finally, some people may be allergic to cantaloupes. If you’re allergic to cantaloupes, you should avoid eating them.
When Can You Eat Cantaloupe?
Cantaloupe is a type of muskmelon, and like all melons, it is best eaten when it is ripe. A ripe cantaloupe will be fragrant and have soft, yielding flesh. However, it should be soft enough, indicating that it is overripe and may be mushy.
To tell if a cantaloupe is ripe, smell it first. Ripe cantaloupes will have a sweet, musky aroma. It is yet to be ripe if it doesn’t smell like anything or smells sour. Gently press on the cantaloupe too. If it yields to pressure, then it is ripe. If it is too hard, then it needs more time to ripen.
How many cantaloupes Should You Eat?
Now that you know the benefits and disadvantages of eating a cantaloupe before bed, you may wonder how much you should eat.
As with anything, moderation is key. For example, you don’t want to overeat cantaloupe because it can cause spikes in blood sugar levels and lead to weight gain. However, you also want to eat only a little because you won’t get the full benefits of the fruit.
A good rule is to eat half a small cantaloupe or one quarter of a large cantaloupe. This should give you the perfect balance of nutrients and sweetness, and it won’t be too much sugar.
If you’re still hungry after eating a cantaloupe, you can always have a small bowl of whole-grain cereal or fruit. But do it sparingly, so you don’t disrupt your sleep.
FAQs
Is it OK to eat cantaloupe after dinner?
It’s lovely to eat cantaloupe as a dessert or snack after dinner. Cantaloupe is a healthy, low-calorie fruit rich in vitamins and nutrients. While there are no definitive guidelines on how late you can eat cantaloupe, it is generally best to avoid eating large meals close to bedtime.
Eating a small piece of cantaloupe as part of a balanced diet is unlikely to cause any problems. However, if you have trouble sleeping or experience indigestion after eating cantaloupe, avoid eating it close to bedtime.
Is it OK to eat cantaloupe every day?
Yes, cantaloupe is a healthy fruit that can be enjoyed as a balanced diet. Cantaloupe is a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fibre. Eating cantaloupe daily can help you reach your recommended intake of fruits and vegetables.
If you are trying to lose weight, consider limiting your intake of cantaloupe. Cantaloupe is a high-sugar fruit, and overeating can lead to weight gain. However, eating cantaloupe as part of a healthy diet can be a nutritious and delicious way to reach your daily fruit and vegetable goals.
The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that cantaloupes are a great bedtime snack. They’re packed with delicious nutrients and can help you sleep better. So, if you’re looking for a healthy snack before bed, cantaloupes are a great option. Eat them in moderation, and you’ll be on your way to a good night’s sleep.