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31st August 2023
05:24pm BST
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Katherine told the publication that salt intake can often be overlooked as there can be more of a focus on sugar intake when it comes to nutrition and salt.
"Sodium-high meals result in fluid retention and increased blood pressure, making it hard for the body to switch off completely after eating snacks like crisps or salted nuts."
"This then results in something called superficial sleep, where the sleep isn’t very deep and can often involve disturbances like going to the toilet more, as studies show this can be brought on more by too much salt in the diet."
While it doesn't sound like it would do much for late-night cravings, Katherine suggests having a banana before bed.
Bananas are known for their slow release of energy and are often associated with breakfast or pre-workouts. However, the sleep expert says they are also full of great sleeping aids.
"This one may raise a few eyebrows and for good reason, as bananas are so heavily associated with starting the day as opposed to ending it.
"However, bananas contain both tryptophan, an amino acid that promotes melatonin, and magnesium, a muscle relaxant. Both of which promote relaxation and sleep so put the crisps aside and have a banana before bed."
As someone who lives and breathes crisps, I just can't see myself swapping them out for a banana, unfortunately. However, it is a kick up the backside to stop eating them so close to bedtime.
Zzz.
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