When You Drink Milk Before Bed, This Is What Happens
The thought of drinking a glass of milk before bed makes our eyelids heavy. But is this just because we grew up hearing tales of milk's sleep-inducing powers, or does it in fact, help us fall asleep? According to Healthline, two compounds found in milk, tryptophan and melatonin, may aid in getting some shut eye. Naomi Rogers, sleep expert and professor at the University of Sydney, explained to Huffington Post Australia how these two compounds play a role in helping people sleep. "Tryptophan is a precursor for the neurotransmitter serotonin (often called the 'feel good hormone'), which in turn can be converted into the hormone melatonin, which is secreted at night and is often called the 'hormone of darkness,'" she says. Learning this may seem like the quick answer is yes, but Rogers goes on to say that the amount of tryptophan and melatonin in a glass of milk is so low that it is unlikely we feel the effects.
Milk may help you sleep if it is already a part of your bedtime routine
Healthline supports Rogers claims by stating that currently no evidence suggests the amount of tryptophan and melatonin in a single glass of milk can help with our sleep patterns.
If you disagree, and are confident the glass of milk you drink every night helps put you to sleep, you may not be wrong. UAMS Health explains that the comfort that comes from drinking a glass of warm milk, and the fullness you feel after, is likely what is making you sleepy. In addition, if drinking milk is already a part of your nighttime routine, then it can be important to a good nights sleep. According to Sleepfoundation.org, bedtime routines are crucial to helping our brains recognize that it is almost time for sleep. So go ahead and keep sipping if milk is already an element of your before-bed ritual. If it's not, then you can still enjoy a glass at night. Just don't expect it to make you drowsy, if you're having trouble sleeping.