Is it good to drink milk before going to bed?

Jul 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am 26 years old this year. My health has never been very good, and I also have a slight calcium deficiency. Therefore, I drink a glass of milk before going to bed every day. Doctor, is it good to drink milk before bedtime?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua

Whether drinking milk before bedtime is beneficial depends on individual circumstances and needs.

Tryptophan in milk is a precursor for the synthesis of melatonin, which helps promote sleep and improve sleep quality. For individuals experiencing poor sleep quality, drinking an appropriate amount of milk before bedtime may help improve sleep. Milk contains abundant calcium, which is an essential element for maintaining normal nerve and muscle function. Consuming an appropriate amount of calcium before bedtime helps relax nerves, relieve tension, and improve sleep quality. In addition, milk also contains components such as vitamin B6 and vitamin D, which play a positive role in maintaining nervous system health and promoting sleep.

However, excessive milk consumption before bedtime should be avoided as it may increase nighttime urination frequency, thus disrupting sleep. For individuals with lactose intolerance, drinking milk may cause discomfort such as diarrhea and abdominal pain, so this group should avoid drinking milk before bedtime. Drinking excessive milk before bedtime may also lead to fat accumulation and cause obesity. It is recommended to consume milk in appropriate amounts according to individual conditions.