Jones Smiles - November/December 2024

SLEEP STEALERS

Avoid These Foods for Better Sleep

Tummy Troublemakers As enjoyable as carbonated beverages may be, they can cause gas, bloating, and general stomach discomfort, preventing you from settling into sleep. Other potential triggers

For the estimated 1 in 3 Americans who struggle with insomnia, avoiding sleepless nights is a top priority. Most people know to ease into relaxing activities and avoid blue light from digital devices for at least an hour before bedtime. However, avoiding

certain foods that can keep you awake is just as important. Here are four of the worst culprits. Rhythm Wreckers Cheese lovers, beware! Tyramine, an amino acid found in fermented and aged foods, including cheese, tends to trigger the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that can raise blood pressure. Alcohol also is believed to interfere with circadian rhythms by disrupting the body’s sensitivity to natural sleep cues, such as waning light in the evening. Acid Igniters

of stomach problems include citrus fruits, which have a high acid content that can

fuel stomach acid. Citrus also acts as a natural diuretic, prompting you to awaken in need of a bathroom at night. Hidden Caffeine

Avoiding the caffeine in coffee, energy drinks, and soft drinks is a no-brainer, but certain teas can disrupt sleep, too. While even the highest-caffeine teas, including yerba mate and black tea, have less than half as much caffeine as a standard cup of coffee, all true teas — so defined because they are made from the Camellia sinensis plant — still have enough caffeine to disturb sleep. Only herbal teas like chamomile,

For the estimated 1 in 5 Americans who suffer from acid reflux, the food and drink consumed before bedtime are pivotal to sleep quality. Foods that trigger this gastrointestinal disorder include spicy items and high-fat dairy products like ice cream. Sadly, popular party fare, which includes cheese, tomato sauce, alcohol, and carbonated drinks, also can trigger heartburn.

peppermint, and hibiscus brews are caffeine-free. And chamomile, in particular, contains the added benefit of a plant-based compound called apigenin, which calms the brain.

CONTINUING TO KEEP YOU SAFE AND HEALTHY Enhanced Sterilization Protocols and Controls

Hand-sanitizing stations are located throughout the office.

Beverages will be served safely only upon request.

There will be additional time between patients for enhanced sterilization.

Curbside check-in from your vehicle is now available.

Please reschedule if you have a fever or a sick family member.

Medical-grade air filtration is used in all operatories.

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