should you eat an apple before bed?

We’ve all heard the saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away”, but what about at night? Is munching on an apple before bed a brilliant bedtime snack or a sneaky sleep saboteur? 

At eve sleep, we’re all about helping you drift off easily and wake up feeling fabulous. So, we’ve done the digging (no lab coats, just late-night Googling and actual science) to find out whether apples and zzz’s go hand in hand. 

Spoiler: it’s not as black and white as you’d think. 

the case for apples before bed 

First things first — apples are packed with good stuff. We’re talking: 

And apples have no caffeine and low fat, which makes them a pretty clean late-night snack, especially compared to, say, a midnight biscuit raid. 

but... will it actually help you sleep? 

Here’s where things get juicy (pun fully intended). 

Apples contain a small amount of melatonin (4) — that’s the hormone that helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle. It’s not loads, but it’s there. They also have potassium and vitamin B6, both of which support nervous system function and may help you relax (5). 

And because apples are high in fibre and water, they digest slowly, meaning they can help keep blood sugar levels stable overnight — a big plus when you’re trying to avoid 3am wake-ups. 

So, while an apple might not knock you out like a lullaby and a lavender pillow spray, it certainly won’t stand in your way. 

the bedtime balance 

Here’s the deal: everyone’s different. Some people find eating anything right before bed can disrupt their digestion. If that’s you, keep your apple habit for earlier in the evening — maybe as part of a wind-down snack with a bit of peanut butter (protein + fibre = sleepy gold). 

If you’re prone to nighttime munchies or wake up hungry at 2am, a small apple before bed may just help you stay asleep longer. 

when apples might not be the best idea 

A quick heads-up — apples can be quite acidic, depending on the variety. So, if you suffer from acid reflux or heartburn, eating one right before lying down might not be your best move (6). 

Also, if you’re sensitive to sugar (even the natural kind), you might want to avoid any late-night fruit. In that case, something like a banana, oats, or almonds might be a better bedtime buddy. 

our verdict: yes, with a side of common sense 

An apple before bed? It’s a thumbs up from us — as long as it works for you. It’s light, healthy, and packed with sleep-friendly nutrients. Just maybe don’t pair it with a fizzy drink and call it a nightcap. 

TL;DR? 

So if you’re feeling peckish before bed, go ahead and reach for that apple. It might just be the crunch your sleep routine was missing. 

Until next time, eve Sleep. 

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