Kamal Ghorui
Food can support sleep, but it cannot replace treatment
Doctors caution against treating food as a cure for chronic insomnia.
Dr Pahuja warns, “There is no food that can cure chronic insomnia. Persistent sleep problems, loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness or frequent awakenings may be signs of an underlying sleep disorder that needs to be evaluated.”
That warning is important because many sleep disorders remain undiagnosed for years. Conditions like sleep apnea, anxiety disorders, hormonal imbalance and depression often first appear as disturbed sleep.
Sleep specialists also advise avoiding alcohol close to bedtime. While alcohol may initially make people feel sleepy, research shows it can disrupt deeper stages of restorative sleep later in the night.
The goal is not perfection. A peaceful night’s sleep is often built slowly through small habits, dimmer lights, calmer evenings, lighter dinners, fewer screens and foods that nourish rather than overstimulate the body.
Sometimes, the body simply needs permission to rest again.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Dietary changes may support sleep quality but cannot replace diagnosis or treatment for underlying sleep disorders. Consult a qualified healthcare professional if sleep problems persist.
