Last Updated on October 10, 2022 by theworldofsleepstaff
It’s no secret that spicy food can be a great way to boost your metabolism and help you burn more calories. But did you know that eating spicy food before bed may not be a good idea?
Some experts believe eating spicy food before bed can disrupt sleep patterns and cause indigestion which will have a negative impact on sleep too. So, if you’re looking for a good night’s rest, you may want to avoid eating spicy food at night.
Right here we will explore all the reasons why you shouldn’t eat spicy food before bed. We will also provide some tips on what you can eat instead.
This article is for informational purposes only 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.
This Is What Happens When You Eat Spicy Food
When you eat spicy food, your body temperature rises. This is because the spiciness of the food causes your body to release endorphins, hormones that make you feel good.
However, when your body temperature rises, it can cause you to sweat. And when you sweat, your body loses water and electrolytes, which can lead to dehydration.
Dehydration can cause several problems, including headaches, fatigue, and dizziness. It can also make it difficult to concentrate and make you more likely to wake up at night.
In addition, when you eat spicy food before bed, your body has to work harder to digest the food because of the compounds present in the food. This can lead to indigestion and heartburn.
Eating Spicy Food Before Bed: The Disadvantages
1. Spicy Food Can Cause Heartburn
Heartburn is a common problem that many people experience after eating spicy food. This is because spicy food can increase the production of acid in your stomach, reflux back into your oesophagus and cause a burning sensation.
If you experience regular heartburn, it is best to avoid eating spicy food before bed.
2. Spicy Food Can Cause Indigestion
Eating spicy food can also cause indigestion. This is because the spices in the food can irritate your digestive system and cause cramping, bloating, and gas.
Avoid consuming it close to bedtime if you experience indigestion after eating spicy food.
3. Spicy Food Can Cause Insomnia
If you have trouble sleeping, eating spicy food before bed can make it worse. This is because the spices in the food can cause heartburn and indigestion, leading to restless nights.
Many people with insomnia find that their symptoms worsen when they eat spicy food close to bedtime.
4. Spicy Food Can Worsen Existing Medical Conditions
Eating spicy food can worsen your symptoms if you suffer from a medical condition such as GERD, ulcers, or IBS. So, if you have any of these conditions, it is best to avoid consuming spicy food at night.
5. Spicy Food Can Make You Dehydrated
Dehydration can cause many problems, including headaches, constipation, and dizziness. So it’s essential to ensure you get plenty of fluids while eating spicy foods. In addition, drinking water before bed can help prevent dehydration and keep you comfortable sleeping.
Spicy food tends to be high in sodium, leading to dehydration. So, if you’re eating spicy food before bed, drink plenty of fluids during the day to stay hydrated.
6. Diarrhea
Eating spicy food can also cause diarrhea. This is because the spices in the food can irritate your digestive system and cause watery stools.
Health experts believe eating spicy food close to bedtime can also worsen diarrhea. So, if you’re prone to diarrhoea, it is best to avoid consuming spicy food before bed.
If you have diarrhea, it is essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. You should also avoid eating spicy food until your symptoms have resolved.
7. Nausea
Nausea is another common problem that can be caused by eating spicy food. This is because the spices in the food can irritate your stomach and cause an upset stomach.
What happens is that the spices in the food can stimulate the production of acid in your stomach. And when this happens, it can lead to nausea and vomiting.
8. Stomach Pain
If you have ever felt the burning pain of heartburn, also known as acid reflux, you know how uncomfortable it can be. Eating spicy food before bed can exacerbate this condition and lead to sleeplessness.
If you are prone to heartburn, it is best to avoid spicy foods altogether or at least several hours before bedtime.
Top 9 Spicy Foods You Must Not Eat Before Bed & Why
1. Curry
Curry is a dish made with various spices, such as turmeric, cumin, and chilli powder. While these spices can provide many health benefits, they can also cause heartburn and indigestion.
2. Chilli Peppers
Chilli peppers are the spice that can add heat to any dish. However, they can also cause heartburn and indigestion.
3. Garlic
Garlic is a type of herb that is used in many dishes. While garlic has many health benefits, it can also cause heartburn and indigestion.
4. Ginger
Ginger is a type of spice that is often used in Asian cuisine. While ginger has many health benefits, it can also cause heartburn and indigestion. That said, having a ginger tea before bed is possibly an exception.
5. Pepperoni
Pepperoni is a type of sausage made with various spices, such as chilli peppers, garlic, and paprika. While pepperoni can add flavour to any dish, it can cause heartburn and indigestion.
6. Jalapeno Peppers
Jalapeno peppers are chilli pepper that can add heat to any dish. However, they can also cause heartburn and indigestion.
9. Sriracha Sauce
Sriracha sauce is a chilli sauce made with various spices, such as garlic, chilli peppers, and vinegar. While sriracha sauce can add flavour to any dish, it can also cause heartburn and indigestion.
Tips On What To Eat Instead Of Spicy Food Before Bed
There are plenty of options if you’re looking for something to eat before bed that won’t disrupt your sleep. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Fruit
Fruit is a type of food that is high in vitamins and minerals. As a result, fruit can help you feel full and satisfied and won’t cause heartburn or indigestion.
2. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a type of grain that is high in fibre and protein. Oatmeal can help you feel full and satisfied and won’t cause heartburn or indigestion.
3. Banana
Bananas are a type of fruit that is high in potassium and magnesium. As a result, bananas can help you feel full and satisfied and won’t cause heartburn or indigestion.
4. Toast
Toast is a type of bread that is low in fat and calories. Toast can help you feel full and satisfied and won’t cause heartburn or indigestion.
5. Rice
Rice is a type of grain that is high in carbohydrates. Rice can help you feel full and satisfied and won’t cause heartburn or indigestion.
6. Chicken
Chicken is a type of meat that is high in protein. As a result, chicken can help you feel full and satisfied and won’t cause heartburn or indigestion.
7. Salmon
Salmon is a type of fish that is high in omega-3 fatty acids. As a result, salmon can help you feel full and satisfied and won’t cause heartburn or indigestion.
8. Greek Yoghurt
Greek yoghurt is a type of yoghurt high in protein and calcium. Greek yoghurt can help you feel full and satisfied and won’t cause heartburn or indigestion.
What To Do If You Experience Heartburn Or Indigestion
You can do a few things to ease your symptoms if you experience heartburn or indigestion before bed after eating spicy food.
1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day.
3 .Avoid eating late at night.
4. Avoid lying down immediately after eating.
5. Sleep on your left side to ease pressure on your stomach.
6. Elevate your head and shoulders while you sleep.
7. Take over-the-counter antacids or acid blockers.
8. Talk to your doctor about prescription medications.
When to see a doctor
You should talk to your doctor if you experience heartburn or indigestion regularly. Heartburn and indigestion can be symptoms of other health conditions, such as GERD or gastritis. Treating the underlying condition can help ease your symptoms.
The Bottom Line
Spicy food can cause heartburn and indigestion. If you experience these symptoms regularly, you should talk to your doctor.
You can also do a few things to ease your symptoms, such as drinking plenty of water, eating smaller meals more frequently, and avoiding lying down immediately after eating.