Why Does Milk Make You Sleepy?

Growing up, most of us were made to drink milk before getting to bed at night. I personally hated it, having to chug down a glass of milk and lie down and sleep? Yeah, that's a no for me! But, our parents had a very logical reason behind this - drinking warm milk can improve your sleep!

Why Does Milk Make You Sleepy

In this article, we are going to look into the exact reason why does milk make you sleepy. Take a look.

Why Does Milk Make You Sleepy?

It is a common belief that drinking milk before bedtime can make you feel sleepy, however, there is no scientific evidence to back this up - but why does it make you sleep though, right?

While many people claim that milk can make them feel more relaxed, the truth is that it is actually the tryptophan in the milk that has a calming effect, says the National Institutes of Health.

Tryptophan is an amino acid that is found in many foods, including milk, cheese, soybeans, and red meat. This amino acid helps to produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate your mood and sleep cycle.

Why Does Milk Make You Sleepy

The tryptophan in milk can be converted into serotonin, which in turn can make you feel relaxed and ready for sleep.

In addition to the tryptophan, milk has other compounds that can make you sleepy. These include calcium, magnesium, and B vitamins [1].

  • Calcium helps to relax your muscles and nerves.
  • Magnesium helps to reduce stress and regulate your sleep cycle.
  • The B vitamins in milk have also been shown to help promote relaxation and sleep.
Why Does Milk Make You Sleepy

On A Final Note...

While there is no exact scientific evidence to support the claim that milk makes you sleepier, the compounds it contains can have a calming and relaxing effect.

So if you are feeling tired and need some help getting to sleep, consider having a glass of warm milk before bed. It just might be the perfect way to drift off into dreamland.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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