8 Foods to Avoid Before Going to Bed

Jul 14, 2025 Aanya Mehta

1. Caffeinated Drinks & Foods

Caffeine is a stimulant that can disrupt your ability to fall and stay asleep. Soda, energy drinks, certain teas, and dark chocolate should be avoided before going to bed.

2. Spicy Foods

Spicy food items can cause heartburn, indigestion, and raise your body temperature, making it harder to sleep. Hot sauces, chili peppers, spicy curries should be avoided. Source: Pexels

3. Heavy or Fatty Meals

Such meals cause slow digestion, which can lead to discomfort and acid reflux when lying down. Burgers, fried foods, creamy pastas and pizzas should be avoided for a good digestion at night. Source: Pexels

4. Sugary Foods

Sugar can spike your blood sugar and insulin levels, leading to restlessness or energy crashes. Cakes, ice cream and pastries should be avoided. Source: Pexels

5. Alcohol

While it may make you drowsy, alcohol disrupts your sleep cycle and reduces sleep quality.

6. Carbonated Drinks

Cold and carbonated drinks can cause bloating, gas, and discomfort during the night. Sodas, fizzy water and tonic water should significantly be avoided. Source: Pexels

7. Citrus Fruits

Fruits like orange and lime should be avoided since they can cause high acidity and reflux and heartburn, especially when lying down. Source: Pexels

8. High-Protein Late-Night Snacks

Protein takes longer to digest and can interfere with restful sleep. High protein foods like steaks, protein shakes, grilled meats right before bed should be avoided. Source: Pexels

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