Afternoon tea may disturb your sleep
SETTLING down for a nice hot cuppa in the afternoon is one of life’s simple pleasures.
But don’t even think about putting the kettle on if you fancy getting a good night’s sleep.
Even though it may be hours before you think about slipping into your pyjamas, experts say an after-lunch hot drink ruins the chance of a good kip – especially in middle age.
Scientists and health professionals say the over-50s should steer clear of tea or coffee after midday because they take longer to absorb stimulants in the beverages.
Potential trace amounts of caffeine may remain in the body by nightfall, which can wreck the chances of drifting off. Just two cups of coffee after lunch could leave the equivalent of one cup in the system by 8pm.
Younger people, by contrast, are better able to deal with caffeine in the afternoon. The advice comes from the Global Council on Brain Health, which warns that not getting enough sleep can lead to cancer, dementia and depression.
It has come up with a range of sleep-boosting tips for the over-50s. Advice includes napping for no more than half an hour in the early afternoon and waking up at the same time every day, as well as a warm bath before bed.
But as a nation of tea lovers, it is the after-lunch hot drink ban that Britons may find hardest to follow. Professor James Goodwin of charity Age UK, said: “Sleeping is something we all tend to take for granted, but we really have to wise up to the fact that getting the right amount of good sleep is crucial as we age, helping to protect us from all kinds of problems that can affect our brains as well as our bodies.” – Daily Mail