Does Hot Chocolate Help You Sleep?

Did you know that a third of the British population suffers from insomnia or other severe sleep disorders?

A lack of quality sleep not only affects our mood and productivity but can also impact our overall health.

But what if the solution to a good night's sleep could be as delicious and comforting as a mug of hot chocolate?

Over the centuries, hot chocolate has been a beloved bedtime drink, often associated with warmth, comfort, and tranquillity.

So does it truly help you fall asleep? Or is it just an old wives' tale?

Does Hot Chocolate Help You Sleep?

Hot chocolate contains tryptophan-rich cocoa and milk, which can stimulate the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin and the sleep hormone melatonin in our bodies.

Given what we know about these ingredients, it's not far-fetched to believe that this comforting beverage could, indeed, have a positive impact on sleep.

That being said, it's important to note that while the theory behind drinking hot chocolate as a sleep aid is solid, there is limited research specifically examining the effect of hot chocolate on sleep. Most studies focus on the individual components of hot chocolate, such as cocoa or milk, rather than the beverage as a whole.

This lack of direct research doesn't necessarily mean hot chocolate won't help you sleep. But it does suggest that the noticeable effect of drinking hot chocolate before bed could vary from person to person, depending on factors like individual sleep patterns, lifestyle, and overall diet.

In the end, while hot chocolate may not be a guaranteed sleep aid for everyone, it certainly has the potential to promote relaxation and a sense of comfort before bedtime.

So, if you enjoy a sweet treat in the evening and find that a warm mug of hot chocolate helps you wind down, it's definitely worth including this delightful drink in your bedtime routine!

Here's a quick guide to making the perfect hot chocolate at home.

Why Does Hot Chocolate Help You Sleep?

A cup of hot chocolate could be more than just a delicious treat; it may actually offer various sleep-promoting benefits.

This cosy beverage can be a calming ritual before bed, setting the stage for a good night's sleep.

But how exactly does hot chocolate influence your slumber?

Tryptophan, Serotonin, and Melatonin

As discussed earlier, the essential ingredients in hot chocolate—cocoa and milk—contain tryptophan. This amino acid is vital for the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of happiness and well-being. Serotonin is also necessary for the body to produce melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. Therefore, drinking hot chocolate may potentially boost these sleep-related chemicals in your body.

A Soothing Psychological Effect

One reason why hot chocolate might help you sleep is due to its psychological impact. It's a drink associated with comfort and relaxation, making it an excellent choice for a soothing bedtime routine. The simple act of sipping a warm drink like hot chocolate can trigger feelings of tranquillity, signalling to your brain that it's time to wind down.

Warming the Body for Relaxation

Hot drinks, including hot chocolate, have a physical effect on the body, too. The warmth from the drink can increase your body temperature slightly, leading to a corresponding drop in temperature when you finish the drink. This decrease can mimic the natural drop in body temperature that happens when we start to feel sleepy, helping to signal your body that it's time to rest.

Stress Relief

Chronic stress can significantly affect your sleep, causing insomnia and disrupting your sleep patterns. Cocoa, a main ingredient in hot chocolate, has been associated with reduced stress levels, likely due to its high magnesium content. Magnesium can help regulate the body's stress-response system and lower blood pressure, which could potentially promote better sleep.

Comforting Aroma

The olfactory system—the system related to sense of smell—has a profound impact on our emotions and mood. The aroma of hot chocolate, with its rich cocoa scent, can bring a sense of comfort and calm, possibly enhancing the overall relaxation experience and preparing your mind for sleep.

Encouraging Sleepiness and Relaxation

Lastly, the combination of warmth, aroma, and slight heaviness in the stomach after consuming a cup of hot milk-based chocolate might work together to promote sleepiness and relaxation.

Will The Sugar Content Affect Your Sleep Quality?

While we've highlighted the potential benefits of hot chocolate for sleep, it's crucial to consider the role of sugar in this equation.

As delicious as it is, hot chocolate often contains a fair amount of sugar, especially if it's made using a pre-packaged hot chocolate powder or topped with whipped cream or marshmallows.

Research has shown that excessive sugar intake can disrupt sleep. Sugar can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels, leading to waking up in the middle of the night. It can also increase energy levels, which is not ideal when you're trying to settle down for the night.

For a more sleep-friendly hot chocolate, consider reducing the sugar content.

You might opt for a lower-sugar dark chocolate hot chocolate or sweeten your drink with a small amount of honey or a sugar substitute.

What About The Caffeine Content?

The mention of hot chocolate as a potential sleep aid might raise eyebrows among those aware of its caffeine content.

Yes, it's true—cocoa does contain caffeine, a stimulant known for its wake-promoting effects.

However, the amount of caffeine in hot chocolate is typically much lower than in other common beverages like coffee or energy drinks.

While the exact amount can vary, a typical cup of hot chocolate generally contains less caffeine than a cup of green tea. For most people, this small amount of caffeine won't be enough to cause sleep disturbances.

That being said, everyone's sensitivity to caffeine is different.

If you're someone who's particularly sensitive to caffeine, you might want to pay attention to how drinking hot chocolate in the evening affects your sleep. If you find it makes you feel alert or restless, it might be better to enjoy your hot chocolate earlier in the day.

Remember, while hot chocolate may potentially aid in sleep, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Always listen to your body and adjust your routines to suit your individual needs and responses.

Potential Negative Implications of Drinking Hot Chocolate Before Bed

While we've focused on the potential sleep benefits of drinking chocolate, it's essential to balance this with a discussion of potential downsides.

As with any food or drink, consuming hot chocolate should be done in moderation, and it's important to understand how it might negatively impact your sleep or overall health.

• Calories and weight gain: Firstly, consuming calorie-rich beverages like hot chocolate regularly, especially if you're adding whipped cream or marshmallows, can lead to weight gain over time. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for good quality sleep, as obesity can increase the risk of sleep disorders like sleep apnea.
• Tooth decay: The sugar in hot chocolate can increase the risk of tooth decay, especially if you're consuming it right before bed without brushing your teeth afterwards.
• Disrupted sleep: As we discussed earlier, the sugar content in hot chocolate can potentially disrupt your sleep by causing fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Similarly, if you're sensitive to caffeine, the small amount in hot chocolate might be enough to keep you awake longer than desired.
• Digestive discomfort: For some people, consuming dairy products or certain types of sweeteners can lead to digestive discomfort, which could potentially disrupt sleep. If you're lactose intolerant, for instance, you might find that the milk in hot chocolate causes bloating or discomfort that makes it hard to fall asleep.

However, don't let these potential downsides deter you from enjoying your beloved cup of hot chocolate. The key lies in moderation and understanding your own body's responses. You might also consider making adjustments, like using a sugar substitute or lactose-free milk, to enjoy the benefits of hot chocolate without the drawbacks.

Are There Healthier Options?

While hot chocolate can potentially aid in sleep, you might be seeking alternatives that offer similar benefits but with fewer potential drawbacks, especially if you're concerned about sugar intake, caffeine sensitivity, or maintaining good health.

Luckily, there are plenty of other drinks known for their sleep-promoting effects. Here are a few:

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is a time-honoured sleep aid, enjoyed around the world for its calming properties. It is caffeine-free and contains an antioxidant called apigenin, which binds to specific receptors in your brain that may decrease anxiety and initiate sleep. Chamomile tea can be consumed in the evening without concerns about sugar or caffeine disrupting your sleep.

Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea is another herbal option that could potentially promote good sleep. While its sleep-promoting effects aren't as directly studied as those of chamomile, peppermint tea has been associated with muscle relaxation and stress relief, which could potentially help you relax before bedtime. Like chamomile, peppermint tea is caffeine-free and can be enjoyed without added sugar.

Warm Milk

Warm milk is an old-fashioned sleep remedy that many people swear by. While the science on whether warm milk directly induces sleep is mixed, it could have a psychological effect, similar to hot chocolate. Many of us associate warm milk with comfort and bedtime, so it might help prepare your brain for sleep. Plus, like hot chocolate, milk contains the amino acid tryptophan, which can contribute to the production of sleep-promoting serotonin and melatonin.

The Bottom Line: Does Hot Chocolate Keep You up at Night?

Contrary to what you might expect from a drink that contains some caffeine and sugar, hot chocolate can potentially aid in sleep, rather than disrupt it.

The cocoa content in hot chocolate contains tryptophan, which contributes to the production of sleep-promoting serotonin and melatonin, and the act of drinking a warm beverage can have a soothing psychological effect that helps prepare your body for sleep.

However, it's crucial to consider your individual responses and overall diet. The sugar content in hot chocolate could potentially disrupt sleep if consumed in large amounts, especially for those with blood sugar regulation issues. Likewise, while the caffeine content in hot chocolate is generally much lower than in coffee or tea, those who are particularly sensitive to caffeine might find that it affects their sleep.

As with many things related to diet and sleep, the key lies in moderation and personalisation. Enjoying a cup of hot chocolate can be part of a healthy sleep routine, especially when consumed mindfully and in conjunction with other good sleep practices.

FAQs

Why Does Hot Chocolate Make You Sleepy?

Hot chocolate can make you sleepy due to the presence of tryptophan in cocoa. Tryptophan is a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin, which can then be converted into the sleep hormone, melatonin. Additionally, the warm, comforting nature of the drink can induce a state of relaxation, helping you unwind before bed.

What Are the Benefits of Drinking Hot Chocolate Milk at Night?

Drinking hot chocolate milk at night can potentially help improve sleep quality, thanks to the soothing psychological effects of consuming a warm drink and the tryptophan content in cocoa. Plus, milk contains calcium and vitamin D, nutrients important for overall health, including the regulation of sleep.

Is Hot Chocolate Better Than Coffee?

Hot chocolate is typically lower in caffeine than coffee, making it a better choice for those sensitive to caffeine or looking for a sleep-friendly beverage. However, it does contain more sugar, so moderation is key. Both drinks have their unique benefits, and the better choice depends on individual needs and preferences.