The soothing drink that could help you sleep as UK temperatures soar
In an effort to beat the heat and get some rest, people are ditching their duvets, wriggling restlessly, and even dangling a leg out of bed to stay cool.
However, there might just be a simple beverage that could transform your restless nights into peaceful slumber. Dreams' sleep expert Sammy Margo has highlighted matcha as the drink of choice, which is not only trending online but also boasts benefits beyond its social media fame, reports Surrey Live.
Though typically considered a daytime refreshment, consuming matcha before bedtime could be surprisingly beneficial. Margo points out: "Its calming properties may help to soothe any afternoon or pre-bedtime anxieties. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
"In fact, some people even make low-caffeine or ceremonial-grade matcha part of their mindful evening routine to wind down gently. However, if you're sensitive to caffeine, it's best to listen to your body and consider enjoying it earlier in the day."
Research featured on PubMed extols the virtues of matcha for older adults, even those with Alzheimer's. The study indicates: "The present study suggests regular consumption of matcha could improve emotional perception and sleep quality in older adults with mild cognitive decline.
"Given the widespread availability and cultural acceptance of matcha green tea, incorporating it into the daily routine may offer a simple yet effective strategy for cognitive enhancement and dementia prevention."
Encouraging individuals to hold off on the coffee, she points out that "unlike coffee, which can sometimes upset your stomach or cause acid reflux - therefore impacting your sleep, matcha may be gentler on the tummy and less acidic. That may make it a great choice to try if you have a sensitive stomach, or find your sleep gets thrown off by digestive issues".
We all enjoy sticking to our routine as much as possible, and if that includes a morning coffee, it could be difficult to let go. However, if you experience an afternoon slump, it might be worth investigating whether your coffee is the culprit.
The sleep expert elaborated: "While coffee might give you a quick jolt of energy, it often comes with the drastic afternoon crash and can leave you feeling wired well into the evening.
"Matcha, conversely, is known to provide a smoother, more balanced boost and compared to regular tea, matcha contains a higher concentration of caffeine and antioxidants, offering a more sustained and focused energy.
"That's thanks to L-theanine, an amino acid that works alongside its gentle caffeine content to create a calm, focused energy. It may help to keep you alert without overstimulating your system, making it much easier to unwind and setting you up for a good night's sleep."
Consider swapping your regular cuppa for matcha, as it could help you dodge that dreadful afternoon slump set to hit in a few hours. And not forgetting the extra benefit: it's abundant in antioxidants, which are just the ticket for overnight recovery.
Margo pointed out that EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate), a potent plant compound predominantly found in green tea, "helps your body repair cells and fight inflammation". Margo added: "While it might not directly help you fall asleep, it may support your body's overnight recovery, so you may wake up feeling more refreshed and ready to take on the day."
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