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January 20, 2025 | 10:04 pm
Tempo.co, Jakarta - A restful night's sleep is crucial for people of all ages. Children who have difficulty sleeping not only frustrate their parents but also hinder their growth and development.
As reported by Medical Daily, sleep specialist Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown recommends that parents carefully monitor their children's diet. While chocolate and caffeine before bedtime are well-known disruptors, she also highlights other less obvious foods that can interfere with a child's sleep.
"Caffeine isn't just coffee and soda," Brown reminded in an Instagram post.
While coffee and soda are the most obvious sources, caffeine can also be found in chocolate, iced tea, decaffeinated beverages, and even sparkling water, she noted. To promote a more restful and deeper night's sleep, Brown advises parents to always check food labels for hidden caffeine content.
Chocolate
Children's favorite sweet snacks can disrupt sleep in two ways, as they contain both chocolate and sugar—two factors that are known to affect sleep. "Limit chocolate, particularly on holidays, to avoid energy spikes before bedtime," Brown recommends.
Sweets
It’s common to think that sweets like candy and cakes are the primary culprits behind poor sleep due to sugar. However, Brown highlights that sugar can be hidden in unexpected places, such as cereal and cookies. High-sugar foods can trigger energy bursts that lead to hyperactivity at bedtime, followed by emotional disruptions that interfere with sleep.
“To ensure a smoother transition to sleep, avoid sugary foods before bedtime,” she recommends.
Processed foods and carbohydrates
Processed foods, packed with added sugars and salts, are well-known for their negative impact on health. However, if you're looking for another reason to cut back on them, consider how they can also affect sleep quality. While chips, crackers, and granola bars may seem like convenient solutions for a child's constant cravings, Brown suggests opting for protein-rich snacks before bedtime to avoid blood sugar spikes and enhance the quality of sleep.
Spicy foods
For a peaceful night's sleep, children need to have a calm stomach. "Foods with ingredients like tomato sauce, green chilies, or hot peppers can cause digestive issues and discomfort, leading to disrupted sleep," explains Brown.
To ensure better sleep, it's advisable to avoid these foods, particularly at dinner, if your child has a sensitive stomach.
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