Expert: The best tea to help older adults sleep

Older adults often have problems sleeping. There are many ways to improve sleep, including some teas that not only help you sleep well but also aid digestion and provide certain health benefits.

Here are the three best teas for sleep that can help older adults sleep better at night, according to health news site Healthline .

Some teas not only help you sleep well but also aid digestion and provide certain benefits.

Photo: AI

Chamomile tea

This herbal tea is known for its calming effects. Chamomile contains apigenin, a natural flavonoid with antioxidant, anti-cancer, and cardioprotective properties. Nutritionist Lindsay Fencl, of the Sports Nutrition, Women's Health & Community Wellness Center (USA), explains that apigenin binds to certain receptors in the brain, creating a feeling of relaxation, reducing anxiety, and promoting sleep. In this way, chamomile helps calm the nervous system, making it easier to fall asleep.

Fencl recommends drinking chamomile tea about an hour before bed to prepare for deep sleep and support the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.

Peppermint tea (lemon basil)

This mildly aromatic tea also has a calming effect. Research has shown that peppermint tea can improve sleep quality, especially in people with diabetes, says US-based nutritionist Julianka Bell. Research also suggests that the tea’s sleep-enhancing effects are due to rosemarinic acid, a phytonutrient that activates GABA receptors, slowing down brain activity and improving sleep.

Passionflower tea

Research suggests that passionflower tea may be beneficial for older adults with insomnia or difficulty sleeping. Passionflower has a stronger sedative effect than herbs like peppermint or chamomile, explains Bell. Early research suggests it may increase GABA levels in the brain, which helps reduce nervous system activity and has a sedative effect, making it particularly helpful for sleep problems caused by anxiety.

Nutrition experts agree that tea can improve sleep quality.

Photo: AI

Notes when drinking tea before going to bed

The above mentioned teas all have one thing in common: They promote relaxation and help you sleep better. However, you should note the following.

Maintain a routine : Incorporating a warm cup of tea into your nightly routine can signal to your body that it's time to relax and prepare for sleep.

When to drink : To avoid disrupting your sleep due to having to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night, try to stop drinking tea at least 1 hour before bedtime.

Consult your doctor : Some herbs can interact with prescription medications or certain health conditions. Always consult your doctor before trying a new tea or remedy, according to Healthline .

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/chuyen-gia-loai-tra-tot-nhat-giup-nguoi-lon-tuoi-say-giac-185250722210759061.htm