These bedtime drinks may help reduce stress and anxiety

Time of India

2 days ago

Tossing and turning throughout the night is undeniably one of the most unpleasant experiences, especially if it is caused by excessive stress and anxiety. Blame it on a hectic lifestyle, running to meet deadlines, or too much screen exposure, stress and anxiety are unavoidable, but 'what you eat or drink' can impact your stress levels and can also interfere with your sleep.
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Well, if you often struggle with all these issues, then add these simple bedtime drinks that can naturally heal stress and anxiety and also help in inducing sleep.
Are bedtime drinks effective?
For ages, we have been told about the numerous benefits of consuming milk before bedtime; this traditional practice helps in inducing sleep and reducing stress and restlessness. This is due to the presence of a compound called tryptophan, which is basically an amino acid that helps produce serotonin and melatonin, the hormones that regulate sleep.
What's more, the warmth and comfort of milk combined with spices have a soothing, relaxing effect, making it easier to fall asleep.
Better sleep
Milk contains tryptophan, an amino acid that helps the body produce serotonin and melatonin, the hormones that regulate mood and sleep-wake cycles. Warm milk, in particular, has a comforting effect that can naturally relax the body and signal the brain to wind down.
Kashmiri saffron and elaichi (cardamom) are both medicianlly acclaimed and treasured ingredients in Indian kitchens. They can work wonder on your health when they are infused into a warm, comforting tea. This luxurious aromatic tea is not only flavorful but also packed with health benefits that make it the perfect bedtime drink. Here are 6 wonderful reasons you should sip on Kashmiri saffron and elaichi tea before you sleep:
Muscle recovery
Milk is rich in protein, especially casein, which is slowly digested.
Consuming it before sleep provides a steady supply of amino acids overnight, helping repair and build muscle. This is especially helpful for people who work out or have physically demanding routines.
Stabilizes blood sugar
The protein and healthy fat in milk help prevent blood sugar dips during the night, which can otherwise disturb sleep. This steady energy release makes milk a beneficial choice for those prone to late-night hunger or blood sugar fluctuations.
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Reduces cravings
A warm glass of milk can act as a satisfying bedtime snack. It's filling without being too heavy, which can help reduce the urge to reach for sugary or salty snacks at night, habits often tied to stress or emotional eating. Here are some drinks that can be added to the daily diet.
Warm milk with honey
A classic bedtime drink, warm milk with honey is both soothing and delicious. Milk contains tryptophan, which promotes the production of serotonin and melatonin—two key hormones involved in relaxation and sleep.
Adding a teaspoon of honey not only enhances the flavor but may also help calm the brain by slightly raising insulin levels, allowing more tryptophan to enter the brain.
Turmeric milk
Golden milk is made by combining warm milk with turmeric, black pepper, and sometimes cinnamon or ginger. Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce physical tension and mental stress.
Drinking golden milk at night may not only improve sleep quality but also support long-term brain health and mood regulation.
Ashwagandha milk
Ashwagandha is a popular adaptogenic herb that helps the body manage stress by balancing cortisol levels. When mixed into warm milk, ashwagandha becomes a nourishing bedtime drink that can ease anxiety, lower mental fatigue, and promote restful sleep. A dash of cinnamon or cardamom can enhance both the flavor and the calming effect.
Nutmeg milk
Nutmeg is a spice known for its mild sedative properties. A pinch of nutmeg stirred into a cup of warm milk can help calm the nervous system and improve sleep quality. This drink is especially helpful if you're feeling restless or have trouble falling asleep due to stress or an overactive mind.
Blame it on overexposure to gadgets, long screen time or stressful life; we often stop paying heed to our health until it takes a toll on our health and well-being. Swelling, itching, and watery and red eyes are some of the most common indicators of slackening vision, which we mostly ignore but may lead to serious consequences if left untreated. Most people rely on pills, eye drops, medications and eye surgeries to fix eye issues, but you will be amazed to know that in traditional households a simple bedtime drink was consumed as a potent remedy for poor eye health. Here's an insight about the age-old remedy.
Saffron milk
Saffron milk is made by steeping a few strands of saffron in warm milk. Saffron has natural mood-enhancing and stress-reducing properties due to its compounds like crocin and safranal.
Regular consumption may help reduce symptoms of mild depression and anxiety. Its luxurious aroma and golden hue also make it a comforting ritual before bed.
Cinnamon milk
Cinnamon has a warm, sweet aroma and mild muscle-relaxing properties. When stirred into milk, it creates a soothing drink that helps lower blood sugar and calm stress-related inflammation. Cinnamon milk is particularly beneficial during colder months when warmth and comfort are most needed.
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