Last Updated on October 9, 2022 by theworldofsleepstaff
Drinking some apple juice before bed is an easy way to wind down and relax before sleeping. But did you know it could have an impact on your sleep?
Keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons for both your sleep and overall health is you have apple juice before bed. We’ll be answering a few of your frequently asked questions at the bottom too.
Disclaimer: You must always consult your doctor before including a new supplement or food into your daily routine as only your doctor can explain any pros or cons that are specific to you. Some supplements & foods may interfere with medications and/or cause allergic reactions.
But First: What’s In Apple Juice?
Most commercial apple juices are made from concentrate, which has added sugar. One cup of apple juice contains about 24 grams of sugar, which is more than the amount of sugar in a can of soda!
In addition to high sugar, apple juice is also quite acidic. This acidity can cause indigestion and heartburn, especially when consumed before bed.
Finally, most apple juice is actually lacking in many of the essential nutrients that are found in whole apples. These nutrients include fibre, vitamins, and minerals.
Drinking Apple Juice Before Bed: Why It May Not Be A Good Idea
Like us, you may have grown up thinking apple juice was the healthiest beverage choice. After all, it’s made from apples, and we all know that apples are good for us! Right?
WRONG.
It turns out that drinking apple juice before bed is actually not a good idea, and here’s why:
1. The Sugar In Apple Juice May Keep You Awake
Many people believe that fruit juices are natural and therefore healthy. However, many people don’t realize that fruit juices are often loaded with sugar. And while some sugar is refined, too much sugar can lead to increased energy levels and difficulty sleeping. Indeed apple juice can keep you awake.
A few studies found that people who drank apple juice before bed took longer to fall asleep and experienced more fragmented sleep than those who did not drink juice before bed.
Thus, avoiding sugary beverages like apple juice is best if you want to wind down before bed.
2. Apple Juice Acidity May Cause Issues
The acidity of apple juice can irritate your stomach and cause indigestion.
While the sugar in apple juice can keep you awake, the acidity of the juice can also lead to stomach discomfort and indigestion – which may also cause problems getting to sleep.
Apple juice is quite acidic, with a pH of around 3.5. As a result, it can easily irritate your stomach, especially if you drink it on an empty stomach.
Furthermore, the acidity of apple juice can also cause heartburn and indigestion. So if you’re prone to these issues, it’s best to avoid drinking apple juice before bed.
3. Apple Juice Does Not Have The Same Nutritional Benefits As Whole Apples
While apples contain fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants, apple juice is mostly just sugar and water.
A cup of apple juice has about as much sugar as a soda! So if you’re looking for a healthy way to get your fruit fix, it’s best to eat an actual apple instead of drinking its juice.
That being said, there are still some benefits to drinking apple juice in moderation. For example, it can be a good source of vitamins C and A.
But if you’re looking to improve your sleep or avoid indigestion, it’s best to steer clear of apple juice before bed.
4. Drinking Apple Juice Before Bed May Cause Weight Gain
While apple juice does have some nutrients, it’s also packed with sugar and calories. And if you’re not careful, drinking too much of it can lead to weight gain.
A single cup of apple juice contains around 120 calories and 30 grams of sugar. That’s about the same amount of sugar as a can of soda!
Furthermore, the sugar in apple juice is mostly fructose, a sugar that is more likely to be stored as fat in your liver.
Thus, it’s best to avoid drinking apple juice before bed if you’re trying to lose or maintain a healthy weight.
5. Apple Juice Can Interact With Certain Medications
Apple juice contains a compound called pectin, which can interact with certain medications. For example, pectin can bind to antibiotics and reduce their absorption.
In addition, pectin can also interact with blood thinners and other medications. Thus, if you’re taking any medication, you should check with your doctor before drinking apple juice.
The safest thing to do is ask your doctor and avoid apple juice altogether if you’re taking medication.
6. Apple Juice Is High In Sugar & Calories, Which May Cause Health Problems.
Drinking too much apple juice can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health problems.
Apple juice is high in sugar and calories, contributing to weight gain. In addition, the sugar in apple juice is mostly fructose, which can lead to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Furthermore, apple juice is also high in oxalates, which can increase the risk of kidney stones. And because it’s acidic, apple juice can also damage your teeth.
Thus, limiting your intake of apple juice is best to avoid these health problems.
The Health Benefits Of Drinking Apple Juice Before Bed
Despite the potential risks, there are some benefits to drinking apple juice before bed are still.
1. It May Help You Fall Asleep
The sugar in apple juice can help you fall asleep by raising your blood sugar levels. This increase in blood sugar will signal to your body that it’s time to sleep.
In addition, the fructose in apple juice can also help you sleep by increasing levels of tryptophan, a sleep-inducing amino acid.
Hence, drinking a glass of apple juice before bed may help if you’re having trouble falling asleep.
2. It May Relieve Constipation
The pectin in apple juice can help to relieve constipation by increasing the amount of water in your intestine. This increase in water will soften your stool and make it easier to pass.
In other words, drinking apple juice can help to keep you regular.
3. It May Improve Your Gut Health
The pectin in apple juice can also help to improve your gut health by feeding the good bacteria in your intestine. These good bacteria are essential for a healthy digestive system.
Many people also say that the fibre in apple juice can help keep you regular by preventing constipation.
Make sure to drink apple juice that has not been pasteurized, as this process can destroy the beneficial bacteria.
Pasteurized apple juice is still safe to drink but won’t have the same gut-healthy benefits.
4. It May Boost Your Immune System
Apple juice is a good source of vitamins C and A, essential for a robust immune system.
Vitamin C helps fight infection, while vitamin A protects against diseases like measles and chickenpox.
Studies have shown that people who consume more vitamin C are less likely to get sick.
Drinking apple juice can help to keep you healthy by boosting your immune system.
5. It May Lower Your Risk Of Cancer
The antioxidants in apple juice can also help to protect your cells from damage and reduce your risk of cancer.
Scientists believe that the polyphenols in apple juice can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and even kill them.
Furthermore, apple juice’s phytochemicals can help repair DNA damage and boost your immune system.
More research is needed to confirm the cancer-preventing benefits of apple juice.
6. It May Help You Lose Weight
Despite being high in sugar, apple juice can help you lose weight.
This is because the fibre in apple juice can help keep you feeling full and prevent overeating. In addition, apple juice’s antioxidants can boost your metabolism and help your body burn fat.
If you’re trying to lose weight, it’s best to drink unsweetened apple juice. You can also add a little water to dilute the sugar content.
What Are The Side Effects Of Drinking Too Much Apple Juice?
Too much apple juice can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and diarrhoea. It can also cause constipation and increase your risk of kidney stones.
In addition, apple juice is high in sugar and can cause blood sugar spikes. If you have diabetes, you should be especially careful with your apple juice intake.
Too much apple juice can also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and heart medications. Hence, speaking to your doctor before consuming large amounts of apple juice is essential.
In general, it’s best to moderate when drinking apple juice. It can be a healthy part of your diet, but it’s important not to overdo it.
How Much Is Too Much Apple Juice?
The American Academy of Pediatrics, via the Publications APP, recommends that children aged 1-6 consume no more than 4-6 ounces of apple juice daily. For children aged 7-18, the AAP recommends 8-12 ounces per day.
As for adults, the National Health Service (NHS) recommends consuming no more than 150ml of apple juice per day.
To put this into perspective, a small glass of apple juice (200ml) contains approximately 16 grams of sugar. That’s the equivalent of 4 teaspoons.
Hence, limiting your intake of apple juice and other sugary drinks is best. But, of course, water is always the best option when you’re thirsty.
What Is The Best Time To Drink Apple Juice?
There is no wrong time to drink apple juice. However, some experts believe it’s best to consume it in the morning.
This is because apple juice can provide a natural energy boost and help you start your day on the right foot.
In addition, drinking apple juice in the morning can also help to improve your gut health. This is because the good bacteria in your intestine feed on the fibre in apple juice.
Recommendations
Apple juice can be a healthy part of your diet. However, it’s important to consume it in moderation.
If you’re trying to lose weight, it’s best to drink unsweetened apple juice or dilute it with water. However, you should also avoid drinking large amounts of apple juice, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
Whenever possible, it’s best to consume whole apples instead of juice. This is because whole apples contain more fibre and nutrients. They’re also less likely to cause blood sugar spikes.
If you do choose to drink apple juice, make sure it’s 100% pure and doesn’t contain any added sugars.
If you have diabetes, you must speak to your doctor before consuming apple juice. This is because it can cause blood sugar spikes.
How To Choose The Best Apple Juice For Sleep
When choosing an apple juice before bed, it’s essential to look for a 100% pure juice with no added sugars. You should also check the label to ensure it doesn’t contain artificial flavours or colours.
It’s also a good idea to choose an organic apple juice. Again, this is because it will be free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
Finally, check the expiration date before purchasing any apple juice. This is because it can go rancid quickly, and you don’t want to drink a juice that’s past its prime.
Apple Juice Before Bed: FAQs
Is It Reasonable To Drink Apple Juice Before Bed?
Yes, apple juice can be a good choice before bedtime. It’s a natural source of sugar and has no caffeine. Just drink it in moderation and choose an organic juice.
Can I Drink Too Much Apple Juice Before Bed?
Yes, it’s possible to drink too much apple juice before bed.
Drinking a large amount of liquid can cause you to wake up to use the bathroom at night. Too much sugar before bed can also lead to disturbed sleep.
Does Drinking Apple Juice At Night Give You Nightmares?
No scientific evidence supports the claim that apple juice gives you nightmares. However, some think sugary drinking before bed can lead to vivid dreams or nightmares.
Can I Drink Alcohol After Drinking Apple Juice Before Bed?
No, it’s not a good idea to drink alcohol after drinking apple juice before bed. Apple juice can make you sleepy, and alcohol can make you more awake. Drinking alcohol after drinking apple juice may cause you to wake up feeling groggy and disoriented.
Is It Better To Drink Apple Juice Or Eat An Apple Before Bed?
Eating an apple is a healthier choice than drinking apple juice before bed. This is because apples are a good source of fibre and nutrients, while apple juice is mostly sugar.
The Bottom Line
Apple juice is a healthy drink that is high in antioxidants and nutrients. It may also help improve your gut health, lose weight, and lower cancer risk.
However, it’s important not to drink too much as it can lead to weight gain and other health problems. When it comes to apple juice, moderation is key. But as always if you have concerns, you should first and foremost talk to your doctor.